Forum Discussion

kmb1966's avatar
kmb1966
Explorer
Jul 03, 2019

Wireless Fridge Thermometer - Are they accurate?

I have tried a variety of wireless thermometers in the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Currently using an AcuRite 00986 designed to work inside the refrigerator and freezer compartments. These things over the years have proven to be helpful and sort of drive me nuts. They are helpful to let you know there is a problem with the temperature and have 'alarms' that will go off. Hurtful because I think at times they are OFF in accuracy. Using several old fashioned thermometers and a dial frig thermometer, I have seen anywhere from 5-10 degree difference from the digital to the old fashioned thermometer. 5-10 degree difference in the refrigerator can be the difference between thinking your food has spoiled and it not really being a problem. The digital seems to always show a HIGHER temperature than the old fashioned thermometers. Anyone have any experience using these? I keep fresh batteries in these babies but I think they are just inaccurate despite the name Acurite.
  • marcsbigfoot20b's avatar
    marcsbigfoot20b
    Explorer
    Jul 06, 2019
    I use the accurate and recently upgraded to SensorPush for logging purposes. I made a thread about a few months back.
  • Dave_H_M's avatar
    Dave_H_M
    Explorer II
    Jul 06, 2019
    I just grab the one from the stick home to take camping with me. Has been checked against a mercury one and it works fine.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jul 06, 2019
    Ok how to calibrate

    You need some ice (make with DISTILLED water please) About 2 cups worth
    A styrafoam cooler
    A container of water
    A zip lock bag
    The remote sensor

    Put ice in bottom of cooler add water to cover the ice (also distilled by the way) place sensor in zip lock bag and seal. pace it on top of the ice/water and close the lid. come back in about an hour or 3 and read the meter. if it's 32 you are golden 31 or 33 may also be accurate depending on altitude.
  • 3_tons's avatar
    3_tons
    Explorer III
    Jul 07, 2019
    I had an Accurite and it was not at all accurate (in spite of the name) just more junk in my junk bucket...
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jul 07, 2019
    I have both Accurite and Lacross. Agreement does not often happen but 1-2 Degrees off is normal.. of course the senders are in different places and that can affect things too. The one in the fridge is a Lacross.. I tried it in the freezer but it ceased transmitting due to cold. I'd use a calibrated dial or liquid type in the freezer Calibration explained above.

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