Z Sensor: Different Temperature Readings

If you are using multiple devices to monitor the temperature in your fridge or freezer, it is possible that you will get two different readings. Here are some reasons why a temperature difference may exist.

OVERVIEW

1. Microclimates that exist within fridges and freezers can account for a 10-degree +/- temperature difference based on the location of the sensor. More information about this can be viewed in a government report published by NIST.

2. Our sensors are programmed to take the temperature at specific time intervals (5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and so on). When compared to a second thermometer, the time a temperature reading was taken may cause a disparity.

3. Our sensors are very accurate, and the manufacturer claims all sensors that leave the factory are accurate to within 0.5ºC. A letter from the manufacturer, that states that all sensors leaving the manufacturer's factory are compared against a NIST traceable reference, is available upon request. This letter is not a calibration certificate and can not be used in place of a calibration certificate.

4. The best way to guarantee the accuracy of any sensor is to purchase our calibration service. We will send your sensor to an accredited laboratory to have it compared against a NIST traceable reference thermometer, at several points. The calibration certificate states the recorded temperature from your sensor, as well as the reference temperature.

5. While accuracy describes how close your sensor is to the actual temperature, it assumes the temperature is stable. In a constantly changing environment, like a refrigerator or freezer, the response time of the sensor is equally as important as the accuracy. Two calibrated sensors can read different temperatures depending on their response times.

6. Ensure that the sensors are recording information using the correct unit of measurement (Fahrenheit or Celsius).