Bosch is famous for making the self-leveling system. The laser level instructions vary slightly. Thus, checking the instructions and diagram for the model before you use it is crucial.
The instructions cover mounting and setting up the laser level. The instructions also include connecting the receiver and using the laser level. But there’s more. In this article, we’ll highlight easy tips on how to use a bosch laser level.
Set Up and Mounting
To set up your Bosch, you must set it up on a balanced surface or tripod. If you use a manual laser level, alter the screws near the bubble vial until it levels. You must reposition the laser and turn the knobs until it lines up with the bubble vial.
One of the best things about manual laser levels is that they are inexpensive. This is especially true when you compare them to self-leveling lasers. The design of manual laser levels is simple and easy to use. Because of their simple design, manual laser levels are the preferred choice for DIY jobs.
Manual laser levels also don’t need batteries. Also, you will make excellent reference lines if you can set them up properly. Follow the simple steps below to set up, mount, and calibrate your bosch manual laser level.
- Step 1: Start by placing your Bosch laser level on a flat surface. Even though any surface can work, it is advisable to use a flat surface.
- Step 2: Place the Bosch laser level about twenty inches from a wall. Then, place it about one inch from the opposite wall.
- Step 3: You should set your device along the axis of the vial. Ensure that the vial is the one you want to level. The vial should also be pointed towards both walls.
- Step 4: Proceed to check your bosch manual laser level for two screws. The screws will be linking up with the vial. You should turn the screws until the beam your device produces is level with the box axes. So, how do you know your device is calibrated? When the vial shows the bubble resting between two black lines.
- Step 5: Proceed to turn on the lasers. Then, mark where the beams hit the one-inch wall. Also, keep where the beam hits the twenty-inch wall.
- Step 6: Move your bosch laser level away from the wall. Level your laser and then adjust the height. Adjust the size till it hits the mark on the wall.
- Step 7: Now go to the one-inch wall and calculate the difference between the mark the laser made and the one you did. You will know your device is calibrated if the difference is a bit less or equal to the mark you made.
The above steps discuss mounting, setting up, and calibrating a manual bosch laser level. However, if you are using a self-level laser, then use the simple steps below.
- Step 1: Start by placing your device on a tripod stand.
- Step 2: Turn on the device by pushing the “on” button.
- Step 3: Since you are using a self-leveling laser level, you should give it a few minutes to level. The process will take about one minute.
- Step 4: Keep your ears peeled for a beep sound. You may ask: “What does the beep sound indicate?” The beep means that a connection has been made with the laser. You must note that the laser won’t be seen in bright daylight if you do not use a detector.
Connecting The Receiver
If you want to connect your Bosch laser level with a receiver, use a receiver designed to pair with the laser level you wish to use. The good thing about bosch laser levels is that they come with receivers. Also, the receivers have clamps and mounting screw holes. It would help if you also put batteries in your receiver to operate this tool. You need to use a receiver if you want to extend the range of the laser. For example, the GRL 800-20HVK type features an extendable receiver of about 200 feet in diameter to 800 feet.
Calculating Distance
One of the reasons people use laser levels is because it allows them to calculate distance. To calculate distance using your laser level, turn it on and aim the laser level in the direction that you wish to measure. Also, take your laser level where you want to calculate the distance. Then, move your receiver till it catches the beam from the laser level. Some laser levels allow calculation functions such as subtraction, addition, and indirect measurements.
Laser Leveling
To use your laser level to level ground and do some leveling work, you must first connect and calibrate it. We have talked about how to calibrate the laser level in earlier paragraphs. After calibration, choose a point on the ground at your desired height. Then, you want to also connect the receiver to a measurement rod placed at the height. The desired ground height is the bottom of the rod. It will also help if you can mark the height. You should then go ahead and repeat the process as much as you want until there are enough reference points to fill the area.
When you find enough reference points, resist the urge to move your laser level around. If you are using the laser level for ground leveling, you can check for subgrades in the foundation. You can check for subgrades by utilizing a grading stick. The grade stick is only good enough when it has numbers on it. Move your laser level up and down until it can read the laser beam level that is spinning 360 degrees.
So, how do you know the ground is leveled? The receiver on your device will give a beep when it comes as close to an inch to reading the beam from the device. You need to move the receiver down if your machine gives out a fast beep. However, you should move the receiver up if the beep is slow. If you want to check for grades, you must take the reading of the sub-base.
You should take about ten different readings using the grade stick. After taking the readings, you can then calculate the average. Whatever your calculations give you is the average sub-base. You can then level higher parts of your ground or lower them using the results you get.
Calculate Elevation
To calculate elevation using a laser level, get the elevation measurements starting from the ending points. You will also need to get the measurements of the ending and starting points. Please note that the distance traveled isn’t similar to the run. Calculate the changes in elevation by the rise over the run. Alternatively, you can calculate by using the difference in vertical distance divided by the change in horizontal distance. The result for elevation grade can be in decimals, degrees, or percentages.
Wall Mounting
There are specific tasks where it is beneficial for you to mount your laser level in the wall. Thankfully, Bosch makes many levels that are designed with clamps and clips. Those clamps and clips are made to help owners mount their units on ceilings or walls. Before you make a purchase, check to see the mounting options for any model. If you want to use a laser level for vertical or horizontal mounting, choose the one with a ⅝×11 mount.
There are tips on how to use a Bosch laser level in the manual. Always check the manual to know the model you use and how best to set it up. You can purchase kits that contain all you need to know on setting up a laser level. Alternatively, you can order the parts separately as the need arises.
FAQS
- Where can I get a Bosch Laser Level?
You can get a Bosch Laser Level on Amazon. You can also get it from Engineer supply. Engineer supply is a factory authorized dealer of the Bosch laser levels.
- What are Laser Levels Used For?
Laser levels are excellent for alignment and measuring tasks. Contractors and builders use them to take measurements outdoors before laying the foundation. They are also helpful in building walls and the installation of ceilings.
Final Thoughts
For efficiency and excellent customer service support, purchase a Bosch Laser Level! They are easy to set up. And depending on the type you buy, you can set them up in less than five minutes. Hopefully, this guide will help you make an informed decision when you are in the market for a laser level!
