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.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ice
• Ice
• Short Glass
• Small Pot
• Needle-nose Pliers
• 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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[erwerber]

on 11/2/2007 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.