How do you calibrate a metal stem thermometer?

How do you calibrate a metal stem thermometer?

PUT THE THERMOMETER STEM OR PROBE INTO THE ICE WATER. Make sure the sensing area is under water and not touching the sides of the container. Wait 30 seconds or until the reading stays steady. ADJUST THE THERMOMETER SO IT READS 32°F (0°C).

How often should metal stem thermometers be calibrated?

Thermometer basics: Thermometers used frequently must be calibrated frequently (weekly or monthly). Follow manufacturer’s instructions for taking temperatures. Always calibrate a new thermometer, one that has been dropped on a hard surface, or one with a temperature reading that is off by more than +/- 2°F (+/-0.5°C).

Do bimetallic thermometers need to be calibrated?

Bimetallic Stemmed Thermometers: Bimetallic stemmed thermometers are calibrated using the ice-point method. Calibrate on a regular basis and after using the thermometer with very hot or very cold foods, or after dropping or jarring it.

What types of thermometers must be calibrated?

Below, we’ve included general instructions for calibrating three common thermometer types.

• Bimetal thermometer. If you have a bimetal thermometer, look for a calibration nut beneath the display dial.
• Digital thermometer. To calibrate a digital thermometer, look for the reset button.
• Liquid-filled thermometer.

What is the most accurate method for calibrating?

The ice-point method is the most widely used method to calibrate a thermometer.

What are the 3 steps to calibrate a thermometer using the ice point method?

What are the 3 steps of the ice point method to calibrate a…

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes, then top off with cold water.
2. Stir the water and let sit for 3 minutes.
3. Stir again, then insert your thermometer into the glass, making sure not to touch the sides.
4. The temperature should read 32°F (0°C).

How can I check if my thermometer is accurate?

Insert the thermometer stem at least an inch deep in the ice water without letting the stem touch the glass. Wait for the thermometer to register; this usually takes a minute or less. The thermometer is accurate if it registers 32° F or 0° C.

How often do you need to calibrate a thermometer?

If a thermometer is going from a wide variety of temperatures (from freezing temperatures to boiling temperatures), it should also be calibrated more frequently. Every time you invest in a new thermometer, calibrate it before using it. If you use your thermometer on a daily basis, odds are you’ll want to calibrate it on a daily basis.

What should the temperature of a thermometer be?

Insert the thermometer’s stem at least 2” into the water for about a minute, taking care not to burn yourself while doing this. Do not let the stem touch the sides or bottom of the container. The thermometer should read between 210° and 214°. If it does not, adjust the dial to 212° F.

What kind of water do you use to calibrate a thermometer?

This should be done with distilled water, as tap water has compounds in it which could affect the freezing or melting points of water and skew the process. Calibration in ice water or “freezing” the thermometer is best for thermometers used to measure low temperatures.

Can a thermometer be used with distilled water?

Just compare the two and adjust the thermometer you are calibrating to match the “correct” thermometer’s temperature. This should be done with distilled water, as tap water has compounds in it which could affect the freezing or melting points of water and skew the process.