As we all know that a digital thermometer should always return accurate readings to ensure quality. Whether you use it for cooking, a tool for measuring body temperature, atmospheric temperature, or any other relevant use, a thermometer should always provide the correct temperature. From time to time, digital thermometers require recalibrating.  Calibrating a thermometer is a very simple task you can easily do. Here are some steps that should be of help. 

 Step 1–Know When to Calibrate Your Thermometer 

Calibrate the thermometer before you use it for the first time. It is wise to ensure that a thermometer reads the correct temperature before you use it for temperature readings. It also needs calibration when dropped. Dropping a thermometer may affect its ability to read correctly. It is also recommended that you calibrate a thermometer when it is used to measure extreme temperatures. Measuring very hot and very cold temperatures may cause slight changes in the next temperature readings. Finally, thermometers require regular calibration (daily or weekly) when they are used frequently. 

Step 2–Choose What Method to Use 

Use one of two methods to calibrate your thermometer. One is the freezing point method. Fill a glass with crushed ice. Add a little clean water until the glass is full and stir. Wait for about three minutes before inserting the thermometer into the ice-filled glass. Be sure to place the sensing part of the thermometer first. Wait for about thirty seconds and check if the thermometer reads 32 F. If it does, then it is accurate, and if it does not, it requires calibration. This is by far the most accurate method. 

Another method is called the boiling point method. You need to boil about six inches of water. When the water reaches its boiling point, place the thermometer into the water and make sure that the sensor part stays at the middle of the boiling water and not too close to the sides or bottom of the water container. Wait for thirty seconds and check if the thermometer reads correctly at 212 degrees if you are at sea level or below 1,000 feet elevation. The boiling point of water varies for different elevations: sea level at 212 F, 1000 feet at 210 F, 2000 feet at 208 F, 3000 feet at 206.4 F, 5000 feet at 202.75 F, and 8,000 feet at 197.5 F. The thermometer needs calibration if the reading is incorrect. 

Step 3–Calibrate the Digital Thermometer 

Adjust the nut of the digital thermometer in order to correct the temperature. This is done by simply turning the adjuster until the correct reading is reached.  Digital thermometers do not require any adjustment of a screw or nut. You simply need to locate the reset button. When the freezing point or boiling point of water is achieved, simply push the button and that’s it. Some digital thermometers may require you to push hold the reset button.  

 Hope you have a good health!