Measuring Temperature in Paranormal Investigations

This is a summary of the Society for Psychical Research (SPR)'s guide for measuring temperature in paranormal investigations.



 Why Measure?

  • Sudden, unexplained temperature shifts are commonly reported in hauntings.

  • Measurements help verify whether changes are natural or anomalous.

Types of Thermometers

  • Contact Thermometers: measure surfaces, liquids, air; usually more accurate but slower to respond.

  • Non-Contact Thermometers: measure object surfaces remotely (not air); good for spotting hot/cold spots.

  • Thermal Imaging Cameras: create thermographs (color maps) of heat differences; can also pinpoint specific spots.

Best Practices

  • Start baseline readings immediately and continue throughout the investigation.

  • Record temps at regular intervals (every 10–15 mins, or more often if activity is reported).

  • Allow sensors time to stabilize before logging a measurement.

  • Place thermometers close to reported anomalies, not on floors or near heaters/vents.

  • Use comparative calibration if multiple thermometers are in play.

  • Ensure all devices use the same units (Celsius/Fahrenheit).

  • Always check batteries, sensors, and lenses before use.

Precautions

  • Non-contact devices need a clean lens for accuracy.

  • Data-logging thermometers: confirm date/time + logging interval.

  • Many thermometers/thermal imagers require adjusting emissivity for best accuracy (see manual).

Human Factor Checks

  • Feelings of hot/cold may be caused by:

    • Blood flow changes (stress, emotions, alcohol, smoking).

    • Drafts or recent exposure to heat/cold.

    • Medical conditions.

  • Avoid single readings; take a series of measurements over time.

  • When measuring near people, use non-contact tools to avoid invasiveness.

Key Tip

  • Random readings = useless.

  • Guided, repeated measurements in areas of reported anomalies = valuable data.

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