What is the correct way to calibrate a thermometer with Ice water?
I hear and read different things. I use ice water, but does the type of cup matter? Paper, Plastic, Glass, or Styrofoam. How much ice to water do I need? Do I really have to use crushed ice?
What else liquid can I use? If I have a drink like lemonade or Iced Tea with ice, can I use it to calibrate?
I'm a cook and use a digital thermometer.
How bout unsweetened iced tea?
Tags: crushed ice, different things, digital thermometer, iced tea, lemonade, m a cook, plastic glass, styrofoam
Filed under: Cooking Thermometers | Oct 26th, 2009.
The method described previously is OK, but not "any liquid". If you have a sweetened beverage like iced tea or lemonade, the sugar will change the freeze/melt point. So will salt or any other soluble substance. Your most accurate fluid would be distilled water, but tap water will get you close enough for average work. Once the thermometer has been in the ice water for a couple of minutes, it should read 32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 Celsius. With a digital thermometer, follow the manufacturer's directions to calibrate it. With an analog device, hold the calibrating nut under the dial with a small wrench or pliers, and turn the bezel (outer ring of the dial) until the needle points to 32 – KEEP the end of the thermometer probe in the ice water while calibrating, or it will warm up & you'll waste your time.