Temp difference between Redi Check and Oxo instant read thermometers

[psycho-smoker]

Wondering if anyone can tell me how to measure the accuracy of a given thermometer. I was smoking a pork shoulder today and was using the Redi Check dual-temp thermometer to measure the temp of the smoker and pork. When it read 200 degrees, I took it out to let it cool for a couple of hours. However, when I brought it into the house, out of curiosity I tested the temp with my Oxo instant read digital thermometer and it only read 190. That's not a huge difference but enough that I'd like to find out which one is actually accurate.

By the way, when I saw the difference, I got the Redi Check and inserted it in the exact same place as the Oxo and it again read 200 degrees. I reinserted the Oxo and it also again read 190 in the exact same insertion point.

Appreciate any guidance on how to resolve this discrepancy.

 

[jirodriguez]

Check them both in an ice bath, and then in boiling water. They should read the same in the ice, and also read 212° in the boiling water, whichever one does not measure 212° is off or both might be off a little.

 

[oldschoolbbq]

Check them with the 'Boil Test'  and look for 212*f , then do a cold test  test with ice in water for a few min. and check for 32*f   ...note the difference in your BBQ Logbook , and you'll have you calibration.

BTW , always clean your probes each and every time you insert it into your meat , even the same one. An Alcoho; swab will do , and there are 'specialty wipes' just for the "outdoor cook".

Be safe and hope this helps ,have fun and...

 

[venture]

For any newbies that might stumble across this thread, be sure to adjust your boil test for altitude if you are significantly above sea level. Also, be sure the water is at a full, rolling boil.  A fairly good guide would be:

http://whatscookingamerica.net/boilpoint.htm

Need I say to be careful not to immerse the wires in water, or to let the steam burn your hands?  A pair of tongs is handy to firmly hold the probe in the water without touching the bottom or sides of the pan.

Good luck and good smoking.

 

[JckDanls 07]

here is a good video on how to do a proper ice bath.. check both probes in this ice bath...

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/121943/how-to-make-a-proper-ice-bath

 

[psycho-smoker]

Guys, thanks a million for how to properly measure the thermometers. Apologies for the late reply but was on business travel the last couple of weeks.

I will do this test (the video was very helpful) and see which one is more accurate.

BTW, my pork shoulder came out AWESOME, had great food over the long weekend. I used the meat to make pork taco's (among other meals) and it couldn't have been more delicious.

Thanks again everyone.