Troubleshooting: DishTemp

Why doesn’t DishTemp read the same temperature as my waterproof digital stem thermometer?

  • DishTemp is individually calibrated in a NIST-Traceable calibration lab with an accuracy of ±0.9°F. Most digital thermometers used in foodservice have an accuracy of ±1.8°F. DishTemp is much more accurate and is certified with actual test data at 160°F.
  • Commercial dish machines all have a temperature gradient from the outlet points (the upper and lower spray arms), to the center where the dishes reside. This gradient is typically between 10 to 15 degrees. Stem probe tips that are closer to the spray arms because of where they are positioned, will record higher readings than if measured at the center of the racked dishware where DishTemp measures.
  • The response time of the DishTemp temperature sensor can be different than that of other temperature devices. DishTemp’s response time has been optimized to record the plate surface temperature allowing ample time for the sanitizing rinse water to completely cover the surface and record an accurate max temperature reached.
  • It is also recommended as a best practice to run the dishwasher through several complete cycles prior to testing.

 

DishTemp measures a much lower temperature than the tank gauge on my dishwasher.

  • Many tank gauges are analog and over time can be very inaccurate, even up to 10°F. Digital indicators can also drift over time. To get an accurate reading of the tank temperature, insert a calibrated high accuracy thermometer into the tank and compare the reading to the tank gauge.
  • The temperature measured in the tank will be different than the temperature measured during a dish cycle after the heated water travels through internal tubing and is released into the dishware machine via the spray arms and onto the surface of the dishware. The Food Code accounts for this heat loss by stating that the plate needs to reach 160°F in order to be sanitized, yet the temperature of the water as it enters the manifold must be at least 180°F and no greater than 194°F.

 

How many cycles will DishTemp last?

  • DishTemp includes a 1-year warranty and will withstand daily use.

 

How does DishTemp compare to traditional thermal labels?

  • A traditional thermal label is rated at ±2°F, whereas DishTemp is much more accurate at ±0.9°F.  Further, a traditional thermal label will only tell you whether or not a temperature limit was met or exceeded where it was positioned. DishTemp tells you the max surface temperature your dishes reached, which reveals the temperature adjustments needed to the final rinse water.  You’ll save money not buying labels every month, and avoid overheating your final rinse temperature.

 

How can I check the accuracy of DishTemp?

  • DishTemp comes with a NIST-Traceable certificate of calibration out of the box and does not require regular verification of its accuracy. It is recommended to certify DishTemp annually with accurate temperature standards at 160°F.

 

If you need to quickly verify DishTemp’s accuracy, a quick ice bath test is the easiest way.  Here’s how:

  • Fill a small mixing bowl with crushed ice and add just enough water to fill in the gaps with no ice floating. Allow enough height for DishTemp to be immersed just over half way.
  • Insert DishTemp up to the level of the display so you can still read the digits (see below).
  • Wait 3-4 minutes for DishTemp to stabilize, then read the CURRENT TEMP.
  • DishTemp should read within 32°F (0°C) ±0.9°F (±0.5°C).

How to Do a Proper Ice Bath Test: DishTemp

For more information on DishTemp contact us at techsupport@thermoworks.com or call 801-756-7705.

What is an IP Rating? IP Rating

An IP rating, also known as “International Protection” or “Ingress Protection” rating, is a value assigned to a product that determines its susceptibility to ingress from solids and liquids. The first numeric digit relates to the level of protection against solid objects, and the second numeric digit indicates the level of protection against liquid ingress. Click for a table of IP Rating values.

IP66 – No ingress of dust (6); Protected against strong jets of water e.g. for use on shipdecks – limited ingress permitted (6).

 

Need additional help?

Our Tech Support team is here for you. You can contact them by emailing techsupport@thermoworks.com or by calling 1-385-330-0591.

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