Oven thermometer - why you need it, how to choose, mechanical and electronic models, especially remote devices

Purpose of the device

Oven thermometers allow you to calculate the cooking time of certain products.
Many modern stoves are equipped with an automatic temperature control function. However, choosing a specific mode does not guarantee that the air will be heated to the required level. Sometimes the manufacturer offers only 3 ranges: low (120…180⁰С), medium (180…220⁰С) and high (220…280⁰С). For control, it is recommended to use a special thermometer. In case of deviation from the specified parameters, the heating intensity should be adjusted.

Criterias of choice

When choosing a thermometer, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

device type (analog or digital);
price . Usually it is directly proportional to quality. For household use, devices from the middle price segment are considered optimal;
temperature Range . Recommended measurement limits are from 120 to 300⁰С (most dishes are baked at these temperatures);
fastening method . It is advisable to choose removable or external thermometers;
dimensions . It is easier to read information from large devices and it is more convenient to set the required temperature on them;
brand . Brand-name products usually provide more accurate readings.

How to install a thermometer in the oven?

To accurately display the temperature, it is important to position the thermometer correctly. For accurate readings, it should be placed as close to the dish as possible. The mounting method depends on the specific model. Let's look at how to fix the thermometer in the oven:

There are options installed on the oven grill.
Others hang them on hooks on the door or side. If the connecting element is missing, it is strictly forbidden to use materials that melt and ignite.
Some products are glued to the inner surface. To do this, use a heat-resistant sealant or composition for the car exhaust system.

Mechanical (analog) type

Inexpensive mechanical thermometers are easy to maintain and use.
They are included in the factory equipment of many models of electric and gas stoves. A scale or dial is used to display degrees. Such devices can give readings with a fairly large error. Analog thermometers are built into the oven structure, hung on special mounts or installed on the stove grate.

Advantages of mechanical thermometers:

low cost;
simplicity of design;
easy cleaning;
do not require periodic maintenance.

Flaws:

low accuracy class;
short service life;
The temperature can only be determined after the oven has completely warmed up.

The main reason for the shortcomings of analog thermometers is their design. As a result of constant deformation of the metal when the temperature changes, which underlies the operating principle of such devices, the accuracy of the readings gradually decreases, and over time the device finally fails.

How to choose an oven thermometer?

The appropriate model is selected depending on functionality. The main criterion for purchasing an oven thermometer is the type of device. In addition, it is important to consider the following parameters:

Price
. The lower the price, the worse the quality. For home use, a model from the middle price category is sufficient.
Temperature range
. Optimal values are +120…300ºС. With such a device you can control the readiness of different dishes.
Mounting option
. The most convenient way is removable or external.
Size
. The larger the model, the better the image on the display will be visible and the easier it will be to set the desired temperature level.
Manufacturer
. Products from a well-known brand will broadcast more accurate indicators.

Mechanical oven thermometer

This type is often built into the slab. A mechanical thermometer for gas ovens and electric models is easy to use and maintain, which is complemented by a low price. Degrees are displayed on a scale or dial. This group of devices may provide data with errors. Thermometers are:

hanging;
built-in;
installed on the oven rack.

It is important to remember that such a thermometer is short-lived and after a while, due to the constant deformation of the metal, it becomes impossible to obtain an accurate result. The advantages of this type of oven thermometer include:

budget price;
the most simple design;
ease of cleansing;
no need for maintenance.

Among the disadvantages are:

poor accuracy of readings;
fragility;
To determine the temperature you need to wait for heating.

Electronic oven thermometer

It is a device that determines the temperature in the oven with good accuracy. The downside is that such a device can only be used at a temperature of no more than +280ºС, but for home use this is the most suitable option. The digital oven thermometer has the following functions:

setting the timer;
sound signals;
color temperature indicator;
possibility of choosing dishes.

Among the advantages of this oven thermometer are the following:

accuracy of readings;
attractive appearance;
advanced functionality.

The disadvantages include:

expensive body made of heat-resistant steel;
excess parts that can melt;
the need to protect the housing from high temperatures.

Remote type devices

This option is considered the most convenient.
The design consists of several elements:

steel needle or fork with a temperature sensor;
cable;
control unit with information display.

A probe-needle 80-200 mm long is used to measure the temperature inside a baked or heated product. To do this, it is inserted inside the dish being prepared. The display is located outside to protect against overheating. When the temperature reaches the set value, a sound signal sounds.

Rules of care

During operation, food particles and dirt may get on the thermometer. If cleaning is not carried out regularly, plaque will form that is difficult to remove. Manufacturers indicate specific recommendations for care in the instructions for the devices.

If the thermometer body is made of stainless steel, it can be washed in the dishwasher using mild detergents. This method of cleaning will not harm a high-quality device. Models from the lower price segment can be wiped with a damp cloth and then dried to prevent corrosion. During breaks between using the oven, it is advisable to remove the thermometer and store it in a clean, dry place.

Expert opinion

Torsunov Pavel Maksimovich

Choosing the optimal oven thermometer model is complicated by the large number of proposals. Device popularity ratings help you navigate this diversity.

Why is there a temperature probe in the oven?

The thermal probe function is designed to automatically determine the readiness of a dish.
This function is available only in electric ovens. When using this function, all cooking information is displayed on the display, namely the temperature of the dish being prepared, for example meat. Types of thermal probes:

Wired - found in many oven models. It is stored separately from it. The thermal probe is connected to a special channel in the oven.
Wireless - stored in the oven door. Does not require connection to a control channel, and is considered the most convenient to use. It is available in more “advanced” oven models.

A wired temperature probe is also called a temperature probe or thermal probe. It is the probe that provides control of the temperature of the dish. The thermal probe itself is designed in the form of a needle, connected to the control center of the oven.

One end of the temperature probe is connected to the oven itself, and the other is inserted into the inside of the dish. The temperature at which the product is ready is set independently by looking at the oven instructions. Each cooking product has its own temperature setting. As soon as the set temperature is reached, the oven switches off or beeps. A wired temperature probe is found in ovens manufactured by Bosch, Asko, Electrolux, Hansa, Gorenje, as well as other brands.

A wireless temperature probe is available in ovens from the German manufacturer Miele. This type of temperature probe is already built into the oven. There is only the probe itself, which is inserted into the dish. Miele also calls the wireless probe a “food temperature probe” . It measures the temperature inside the dish itself. This function displays the remaining cooking time of the product on the display. The food temperature probe function provides precise control of the prepared dish. We ourselves do not need to check its readiness.

Recommendations for using a temperature probe:

when using a temperature probe, the temperature of the dish and, if necessary, the oven temperature are set;
for better cooking, the thermal probe must be inserted into the thickest part of the product;
after cooking is complete, handle the probe carefully, as it gets very hot in the oven;
The temperature probe should not be left in the oven;
It is not recommended to use a wired temperature probe above 230°C;
not used for thin cuts of meat.

Not all oven models have a temperature probe function. Where present, wired and wireless thermal probes are connected to the center of the oven. They depend on the oven and only work in conjunction with it. But besides them, there are also separate thermal probes that are not connected to the oven. Unlike the temperature probe function, individual thermometers only show the temperature of the food.

Types of thermometers:

The electronic type

A mechanical thermometer is used exclusively in the oven. It is inserted into the raw product and cooked with it. The temperature is determined by the needle on the thermometer.

A digital thermometer is used not only for hot dishes, but also for cold dishes. It cannot be used in the oven.

Feature benefits:

the dishes turn out tasty and juicy, especially dishes made from meat products;
guarantees high-quality cooking;
makes it easier to prepare food.

Differences between the temperature probe function and thermometers:

built-in temperature probes show the temperature on the oven display;
after the dish is ready, the oven turns itself off; can work simultaneously with automatic programs;
There is no need to control the cooking process, unlike thermometers.

Many people believe that a temperature probe is necessary for the oven. Especially for those who do not have time to control cooking and have little free time. But there are also those who believe that it is useless or is not used. More often, an oven with a thermal probe is purchased by professional chefs. Ovens with a temperature probe function are so “advanced” that they themselves control the cooking process and turn off the oven after completion.

Rating of analogue models

GRADIUS

The device can be installed at any point inside the stove. The case is made of stainless steel, the scale is protected by heat-resistant quartz glass.

dimensions: 7x8x4 cm;
temperature range: 50…300⁰С;

The kit includes a hook for attaching to the grille;
cost: 720 rub.

Tatyana Kozlova, Samara:
I searched for a suitable thermometer for a long time. I settled on the Gradius model. I am very pleased with the purchase. Accurately measures the temperature, installation does not cause problems, and does not interfere with cooking at all.

Kuchenprofi

A high-quality thermometer made in Germany with a modern stylish design. The case is made of stainless steel. The large dial with a diameter of 75 mm is protected by quartz glass. Operates at temperatures 50…300⁰С. Cost – from 600 rubles.

Svetlana Vershinina, Tver:
I use the Russian Vesta stove. The standard thermometer showed the temperature with a large error. In my search for a good thermometer, I paid attention to this model. The temperature is shown with an accuracy of 1 degree (tested in laboratory conditions). I recommend to everyone.

OVEN

This high-precision device is manufactured in several countries in South Asia. It has 2 scales with graduations in Fahrenheit (main) and Celsius (additional).

body material: stainless steel;
scale protection: heat-resistant glass;
dimensions: 7.5x9.5x5.5 cm;
temperature range: 40…312⁰С (100…600⁰F).

Victoria Shaikhutdinova, Kazan:
On the whole, I am satisfied with the device, but there is one drawback: the Celsius scale is located inside the Fahrenheit scale, the numbers on it are printed in small print.

T 837N

Stainless steel and heat-resistant glass are used to make the case. The device has an original design and a high level of protection.

dimensions: 7.1x8.2 cm;
temperature range: 50…300⁰С;
cost: 420 rub.

Products from Generic, Gefu and other brands are also in demand.

The best digital devices

Kromatech PT(JR)-1/TP-101 38149b027

Wireless model with a stylish design. The long probe is designed to measure temperature in both thick pieces of meat and liquids. Equipped with options for auto shutdown and scale selection (Celsius or Fahrenheit). The average cost is 500 rubles.

Endever Smart-03

The device is highly accurate (stated error is 1°C). Equipped with an informative LED display. The characteristics and functionality are similar to the previous model. Average price – 500 rub.

Endever Smart-07

High-precision device with detachable probe. The measurement error is no more than 1°C (2°F).

Endowed with wide functionality:

sound alarm;
auto shutdown;

temperature control;
informative LCD display.

Average cost – 600 rubles.

Zigmund & Shtain Kuchen-Profi MP-66 W

The device memory stores 20 preset modes. It is also possible to set the temperature and timer time manually. Operates in the range 20…250°C. Average cost – 1450 rubles.

Other popular models include Weber 6492, Ivation IWAVT 738, Thermo Pro TP 06, Cason, etc.

Digital thermometers are considered more modern and highly accurate. In addition, models with probes allow you to control the temperature inside the food being prepared. However, analog devices do not lose popularity due to their mobility, low cost and ease of maintenance.

Gas oven thermometer

Gas ovens
How to determine the temperature in the oven by divisions or marks
How much does a gas oven consume?

Of course, cooking is a creative process. You need to be able to invent, combine, invent. Only people with imagination and the ability to combine unusual products can prepare a real masterpiece. But this only happens when a person engages in kitchen improvisation. And even so, there are still certain rules by which it works - the amount of salt, pepper, oil, and so on. But when you cook according to a recipe, you need to be able to follow the recipe as closely as possible. And first of all, this relates to the cooking temperature. By maintaining the right temperature, your dish will be absolutely delicious, no matter how simple it may be.

If the cooking temperature is lower than specified in the recipe, the dish will take a very long time to cook, causing it to lose its taste, or not cook at all. If the temperature is higher than specified in the recipe, your dish will simply burn, or it will burn on the outside but remain raw on the inside.

It is precisely in order to control the temperature inside the oven that special thermometers designed for ovens were invented.

Who will benefit from them?

Oven thermometers are used by a wide range of people. These can be professional chefs, housewives and simply lovers of delicious food; they will be appropriate in any kitchen and can delight absolutely anyone with their functional abilities.

Features of application

It just so happens that oven thermometers are used mainly for gas ovens. Electric ovens, for the most part, are equipped with a built-in thermometer, and there is no need to purchase one. Gas ovens may also have this option, but, again, for the most part, thermometers are not built into gas ovens.

In general, a thermometer is needed to a greater extent specifically for a gas stove, since it has a significant gap in temperatures. This means that it can produce a temperature higher or lower than the one you select. And on some models there is no choice at all, so you have to check experimentally, which is why you need a thermometer.

Thermometers can either be molded inside the oven or attached to any part of the interior of the oven (to the grate, for example) using a hook.

How to choose a convenient option

By following these recommendations, you can choose a high-quality stove thermometer that will serve you reliably and for a very long time.

Buy thermometers from stores that specialize in kitchen appliances, add-ons and accessories. Such stores value their reputation very much and will not sell low-quality goods so as not to spoil the store’s reputation.
Do not buy the cheapest models, they are usually made of low-grade materials and break very quickly.
Try to choose thermometers in which the last reading is 300 degrees. They will be able to show you even the highest temperatures.
Do not take thermometers that are too small - the divisions may simply not be visible.

Grill oven