Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Cont'd

How do I clean the electrodes?

Water and/or ethyl alcohol are the fluids commonly used to clean the electrodes. A few drops of distilled water from a distilled water bottle onto the middle of a paper tissue (Kleenex) that has been very loosely rolled up works well. The two ends act as handles. This can be gently drawn between the electrodes in their open position. Then the electrodes can be dried by moving a dry portion of the paper tissue between the electrodes. By closing the upper jaw loosely onto the paper tissue, the electrodes are easily dried.

A repeat of the opening and closing of the jaws on another dry part of the tissue will make sure.  After a high reading (over a 100 or so) or after a series of readings where some residual GCF has or may have been left, an alcohol swab is a simple means of cleaning the electrodes. Place the swab between the electrodes. Bring the upper jaw to where the swab can be loosely moved back and forth a few times between the electrodes. This should simultaneously clean both electrodes. Then, open the jaws and dry as above with paper tissue.