Draper Tools 34873 Instructions

DAMP
DETECTOR

34873 – DD1B INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

EN

Original Instructions

Version 2 – June 2022

1. Specication

Stock No. 34873

Part No. DD1B

Battery 9V, PP3

2. Health and Safety Information

• Read this manual in full before using this product and retain these
instructions for future use.

• While this device is intended to detect moisture within surfaces, it should
not be used in wet atmospheric conditions.

• DO NOT immerse this device in water or allow the battery to come into
contact with liquids.

• DO NOT abuse, mutilate or burn the battery.

• Check the device carefully before use.

 − DO NOT use this product if it is damaged in any way or there is evidence

of battery leakage.

3. Operating Instructions

Important: The correct diagnosis of some damp problems is complex. If you
cannot trace the cause of damp, or are uncertain as to what remedial action to
take, always consult a specialist surveyor or damp treatment company.

Important: This detector may sometimes give a positive audible detection on
walls that have been successfully treated for rising damp. This is due to the
presence of moisture-absorbing salts that may be used as part of the
treatment.

3.3 Tracing Sources of Damp

Test the surface at regular intervals of approximately 100mm (4”) until the
highest pitched signal is heard or the detector is clicking fastest; this will
identify the dampest area. Continue to test around the dampest area to identify
the direction and spread of the damp from the source.

4. Maintenance and Disposal

4.1 Cleaning and Storage

• Clean the product regularly using a dry cloth.

CAUTION! NEVER use aggressive chemicals to clean the product as these

may damage plastic or insulated parts.

• Remove the cap from the base of the device and t it over the probes if the

detector will not be used for prolonged periods.

• Store the product in a clean and dry location, out of reach of children.

4.2 Replacing the Battery

The detector is powered by a 9V PP3 type battery (not supplied). The LED
illuminates when the button is pressed if there is power to the device.

To replace the battery, slide the battery cover away from the rear of the device,
disconnect the battery from the contacts and install a new one in its place.

3.1 Checking the Detector Before Use

This detector is highly sensitive and familiarity with the tones it emits is

essential for eective use. To hear the device’s response to dierent moisture

levels, hold the button on the right of the device and place the probes on the

palm of your hand, then on the back of your hand. The dierent moisture levels

are indicated by the change in pitch of the audible tone.

Important: Test the detector in this way before EVERY use. If the LED does not
light, or there is no audible signal, test or replace the battery.

3.2 Testing for Damp

To test for damp, touch the probes against the surface and press the button on
the device. If moisture is present, the detector will emit an audible tone. The
more moisture present, the higher the pitch of the tone.

Important: When testing softer surfaces, like wood, wallboard or plasterboard,
the probes should slightly penetrate the surface and pierce any layers of paint.

• NO AUDIBLE SIGNAL indicates that the area being tested is dry and not at
risk from damp and is therefore ready for decorating.

• SLOW CLICKING indicates slightly higher than normal levels of moisture.

− If this occurs, test a wider area and attempt to trace the source of the
moisture (see 3.3 Tracing Sources of Damp).

− Materials may need to be replaced if moisture persists at a consistent
level for prolonged periods.

• A HIGH PITCHED CONTINUOUS TONE indicates a high level of moisture in
the area being tested; take remedial action immediately.

Important: New plastering and fresh timberwork should be allowed to dry out
before decorating.

4.3 Disposal

At the end of its working life, or when it can no longer be repaired, dispose of
this product according to local regulations. Contact your local authority for
details of collection schemes in your area.

In all circumstances:

• DO NOT dispose of this product with domestic waste.

• DO NOT incinerate.

• DO NOT abandon in the environment.

•  Dispose of the battery separately and in accordance with local regulations

or return it to your warranty agent or stockist for recycling.

• DO NOT burn or mutilate batteries as this may release toxic or corrosive
materials.

5. Explanation of Symbols

Read the instruction
manual

Warning!

Do not abandon in the
environment

Requires 1 x 9V battery
(not supplied)

Do not incinerate or throw

onto re

UK Conformity Assessed

European conformity

WEEE – Waste Electrical &
Electronic Equipment

Do not dispose of Waste Electrical &
Electronic Equipment in with domestic
rubbish

Helpline: [phone] Sales Desk: [phone] General Enquiries: [phone] Website: drapertools.com Email: [e-mail]

Draper Tools Limited, Hursley Road, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO53 1YF, UK 0622