How to Test a Digital Thermometer for Accuracy

Why an Ice Bath is the Best Way to Test a Digital Food Thermometer for Accuracy

Customers often ask us how they can find out if their digital thermometer is accurate. We tell them that the quickest and easiest way to determine accuracy is to do an ice bath test, because it’s a standard laboratory test that is easily replicated at home.

Directions for making a proper ice bath are found here.

Pro-Series Probes (Used with DOT, ChefAlarm, and Smoke)

If your probe is accurate, it will read within ± 1.8°F of 32°F (30.2 to 33.8°F). If it is reading accurately in this test, you can rest assured that it is reading accurately in food and at higher temperatures.

ThermoPop

If your ThermoPop is accurate, it will read within ± 2°F of 32°F (30 to 34°F). If it is reading accurately in this test, you can rest assured that it is reading accurately in food and at higher temperatures.

Thermapen

If your Thermapen is accurate, it will read within ± 0.7°F of 32°F (31.3 to 32.7°F). If it is reading accurately in this test, you can rest assured that it is reading accurately in food and at higher temperatures.