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How to Calibrate a Meat Thermometer

The usual hard knocks of kitchen work can make an analog instant-read thermometer inaccurate over time. Make sure your trusty thermometer is showing you the right temperature.

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    Difficulty:
    Moderately Easy

    Instructions

    Things You'll Need

    • Ice
    • Short Glass
    • Small Pot
    • Needle-nose Pliers
      • 1

        Bring a small pot of water to a boil.

      • 2

        Fill a short glass with water and plenty of ice.

      • 3

        Remove the thermometer from its plastic guard and place it in the boiling water.

      • 4

        If it doesn't read 212°F (100°C), turn the nut behind the face with needle-nose pliers. Only tiny adjustments are required; recheck as needed.

      • 5

        Place the thermometer in the ice water.

      • 6

        If it doesn't read 32°F (0°C), adjust the nut. Once it is properly calibrated, the thermometer will read the correct temperatures of both boiling and iced water.

    Tips & Warnings

    • Avoid dropping or hitting your thermometer against hard surfaces.

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    Comments

    • erwerber Nov 02, 2007
      The 212 F boiling point is valid only at locations with the air pressure equivalent to sea level. The article should have included the adjustments for latitude.

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