The design and principle of operation of an oven thermometer
Many housewives, when preparing a dish in the oven, determine its condition and degree of readiness only by appearance, which is not entirely correct. Famous chefs use kitchen thermometers for these purposes, which allow them to control the entire cooking process.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION! Most modern stoves are equipped with a temperature control system. If the selected model does not have a similar function, you will need to purchase a high-quality thermometer. The operating principle of the simplest device is entirely based on the physical property of metals to deform when exposed to high temperatures. The basis of the device is a bimetallic plate. As the temperature increases, it gradually deforms, leading to a change in the position of the arrow indicating a specific temperature.
IMPORTANT ! Models of glass oven thermometers are less accurate than options placed inside the oven chamber, since they are located very far from the direct heat source. Models with a remote probe are convenient because they allow you to control the temperature inside while monitoring the indicators outside
Thermometer and temperature probe in the oven: what is it and what types are there?
Typically, kitchen thermometers have high temperature measurement accuracy, reaching fluctuations of only 0.1°C. But specific indicators will depend on the type of device used.
Analog oven thermometers
The most widely used are analog instruments, which are a standard and familiar round dial with an arrow showing the temperature. Some budget models are not equipped with a full scale with degrees, but only with borderline values, which does not allow accurate indicators to be determined. Analog models are cheaper, but have low reading accuracy
FOR YOUR INFORMATION! The main disadvantage of analog mechanical thermometers is the high measurement error. The advantages are ease of operation and low price. Gas stoves are equipped with similar devices for measuring temperature conditions, which allow you to control the heating inside the oven.
Digital thermometers
More advanced models that use the thermocouple principle, which allows you to obtain more accurate temperature values. This variety is divided into a number of types according to the scope and capabilities of the device itself.
Standard temperature probe
It is a plastic body equipped with a long metal needle. It acts as a temperature sensor and is immersed in the dish to determine the temperature, the value of which is displayed on the screen. Standard needle probe allows you to measure temperature at maximum immersion depth
FOR YOUR INFORMATION! The presence of a large number of plastic parts does not allow the use of these thermometers inside the oven due to the risk of damage.
Wired type temperature probe
It differs from standard models in that it has a remote probe needle, which is connected to the recording unit via a cable. This feature allows the devices to be used inside the oven.
Non-contact electronic oven thermometer
It works by recording temperature in the infrared range. This feature allows you not to immerse the device inside the dish. The disadvantage of such devices is the ability to measure only surface temperature and the increase in error depending on the distance to the heat source. Devices with a probe may have special mounts for placing them on the wall of the pan and monitoring the liquid medium
Why is there a temperature probe in the oven?
- Automatic oven programs
- Special functions of electric and gas ovens
- Gas stove oven thermometer
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 of thermometer is not used inside the oven. It is used only when the dish is pulled out. Afterwards you can determine the readiness temperature. termoschup-003.jpg
- Mechanical thermometer 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.
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How to choose a thermometer for different ovens
There are some features when choosing a device for measuring temperature conditions for various types of ovens. Knowing these details will allow you to choose the most optimal model.
Which thermometer to buy for a gas stove oven
Most often, removable thermometer models are used for gas stoves, which can be installed on glass, a wall, or even a grate. Removable technology makes it easy to remove the device from the oven for rinsing and cleaning, which is required after each cooking. A special feature of models for gas stoves is their low price, which varies from 500 to 2,000 rubles. There are models for gas stoves that can simply be placed on the grate.
Electric oven thermometer
Most modern ovens are equipped with a built-in thermometer, which eliminates the need to purchase a separate device. If you need to maintain precise control, then the most acceptable option is to purchase a digital probe, which allows you to obtain the most accurate readings inside the dish. You can use remote options for the oven
Tips for choosing the best kitchen thermometer
Having decided on the type of model that will be used to control the temperature, you should carefully select a specific model. To do this, you need to pay attention to a number of characteristics:
- The low cost of a digital device will indicate not the best quality and a large error in the readings.
- Size . For an oven, it is advisable to choose a device with a large scale so that you can see the temperature even through the glass. A large, readable dial and a threshold of 300°C are two important parameters when choosing a thermometer
- Maximum threshold . It is recommended to choose models with a maximum permissible measurement threshold of 300°C, which will allow you to cook a larger number of dishes.
- Manufacturer. There are a large number of manufacturers on the market, so when deciding to buy a quality device, you should pay attention to well-known brands. Buying a Chinese thermometer will result in the need to quickly replace it.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION! The preparation of some dishes requires the most delicate variability of temperature conditions, so the presence of a large, readable scale will allow for proper control.
How to use a food thermometer for meat dishes
A meat thermometer should be inserted into the dish during the final stages of cooking. In this case, you need to insert the rod deeply into the product in order to measure the temperature in the middle of the piece you are cooking. Contact of the device rod with bone, cartilage, and fat should be avoided, since their temperature conditions may differ from those of the pulp. You should not resort to using the temperature probe too often: by making punctures, you provoke the leakage of juice, as a result of which the meat may turn out to be too dry.
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Overview of various types of models
There is a wide range of devices on the market for measuring the temperature in the oven. Each class of devices has its favorites.
Gefu Scala probe needle
Gefu Scala is a high-quality model from a well-known brand. A traditional probe that is immersed in the dish being prepared and displays the result on the monitor. The model has a measurement range from -40 to +200°C. The length of the needle allows it to be inserted to a depth of up to 15 cm, which makes it possible to use the device to check the temperature of not only meat, but also liquids.
The measurement accuracy is 0.1°C with an error of 1°C. Among the additional functions, it should be noted the ability to adjust the Fahrenheit scale, high speed of displaying the result (4 seconds), and the presence of memory. The cost is 2,500 rubles.
Gefu gas oven thermometer
Gefu is a recognized leader in the production of kitchen thermometers. A model that is ideal for a gas oven. It has a round dial, divided into color-coded zones for easy temperature control. The range of measured values varies from +50 to +300°C. The dial diameter is 7 cm. Made of stainless steel. The cost is 1,900 rubles.
Thermometer with remote probe Endever Smart-05
A device that has a remote probe, which simplifies the temperature measurement process. Can be used with almost any type of meat. The memory contains presets for 8 options (beef, lamb, veal, pork, turkey, chicken, fish and minced meat). You can also control the degree of roasting using the device. Measurement range from 0 to 250°C, reading accuracy - 0.1°C. There is the possibility of wireless data transmission. The cost is 1,000 rubles. Endever Smart-05 - an inexpensive device with a remote probe A device that has a remote probe, which simplifies the process of measuring temperature. Can be used with almost any type of meat. The memory contains presets for 8 options (beef, lamb, veal, pork, turkey, chicken, fish and minced meat). You can also control the degree of roasting using the device. Measurement range from 0 to 250°C, reading accuracy - 0.1°C. There is the possibility of wireless data transmission. The cost is 1,000 rubles.
Cason Infrared Thermometer
Cason ca380: a wide-range device Pyrometer, or infrared thermometer, which allows you to measure temperature from a distance. The range of parameters taken into account is from -32 to +380°C. It is powered by one 9 V battery, with a continuous operating time of 16 hours.
There is a built-in memory to store the maximum and minimum values. The time until readings are received is 500 ms. To increase accuracy, the device has a laser target designator. The cost of the device is 1,750 rubles.
TOP 5 best meat thermometers according to 2019 version
With remote probe
Thermometer Zigmund & Shtain Kuchen-Profi MP-66 W
A professional temperature probe that costs about 1000-1500 rubles determines the temperature of 8 different types of meat. It is programmed for 20 automatic modes, but there is also a manual one for setting the temperature and time yourself. Allows you to achieve 5 degrees of meat roasting. Built-in timer. Measured temperature range -20 ~ 250°C.
Price: ₽ 1,550
Thermometer Endever Smart-07
For 600 rubles you will receive a collapsible model: the probe can be easily detached from the device for maintenance and compact storage. The thermometer is equipped with auto-shut-off functions, a sound signal for the end of cooking, an LCD display and a temperature control function. Has a high accuracy of ±1°C (±2 or °F). Temperature range 0°-250°C (32°-482°F).
Price: ₽ 573
Mechanical
Thermometer Karl Weis 15305
The wireless device measures only 5.5 by 12 cm and costs about 800 rubles. Suitable not only for the oven, but also for frying pans and grills. Withstands temperatures from +0 to +120°C. Pictures of animals on the measuring scale will tell you the optimal cooking temperature for different types of meat.
Price: ₽ 727
Electronic
Thermometer Kromatech PT(JR)-1/TP-101 38149b027
A stylish wireless thermometer with a long probe costs about 500 rubles and will allow you to measure the temperature of even the thickest piece of meat. The specified temperature range from -50 to +300 °C means that the device can be used for both meat and liquids. There is an auto-shutdown function and changing the °C and °F scale.
Price: ₽ 472
Thermometer Endever Smart-03
Wireless thermometer with a long probe for measuring the temperature inside large pieces of meat or carcass. Suitable for liquids and baby food. High-precision thermometer with an error of only ±1°С. Equipped with an LED display and a function for switching between °C and °F. Costs about 500 rubles.
Price: ₽ 423
How can you determine the temperature in the oven without a thermometer?
There are two popular methods of how you can approximately determine the temperature regime without the use of additional devices.
Flour instead of a thermometer
Place a spoonful of flour on the surface of the baking sheet. After 30 seconds, changes will occur. If the color changes gradually (the flour turns yellow), then the temperature inside the oven is no more than 200°C. A sharp change in color and gradual darkening indicate heating to 250°C. If the flour immediately turns black, then the temperature is over 280°C. It is not recommended to pour a larger amount to avoid inaccurate determination of the result. In the absence of a thermometer, the temperature can be determined using ordinary flour.
White sheet of paper - thermostat replacement
Place a sheet of paper on the grill and adjust the temperature knob. The approximate relationship between temperature and paper behavior is as follows:
- 125°C – after 10 minutes the leaf begins to turn yellow;
- 180°C – the leaf color becomes light brown;
- 225°C and above - in just 3 minutes the paper turns brown;
- 275°C – when placed on the wire rack, the paper instantly becomes dark.
When choosing an important kitchen appliance, you should consider where you can buy a thermometer for a gas oven. Cheaper Chinese options can be easily ordered online. But to purchase a quality product, it is best to contact specialized stores that distribute such accessories. Once again, the video below will help you learn more about the kitchen thermometer.
