RecTeq temperature

[zelmo]

I have had my RT590 since 2018 and from day one was impressed at how stable the temperature display was. Once the temp was reached it always stayed almost identical to the temperature that was set.

The WiFi connection was always a little spotty, and that got worse over the years. I finally got tired of messing with it and got a ThermoWorks Signals unit. I immediately noticed that the reported pit temperature on it fluctuated and differed way more than the RT590 display (and app when it worked.) I can remember one turkey cook when the bird was done about an hour before it should have. I now suspect the smoker was running 20 degrees hotter than I had wanted.

Anybody know how the RecTeq controller works? Is my experience normal or is it a sign that something in addition to the WiFi has stopped working correctly?

 

[SMOKEOCD]

It smooths out the temp, that’s why you always see rock steady temps. It will fluctuate some but not show on the app. Not bashing it at all, that’s just how it works. Since it’s a bit older, if you haven’t scrubbed down the buildup on the Recteq probe, it may be less accurate. Finally, are you using a grate probe or a cooking probe to check? They read a little different. I know I said finally, but you can calibrate the probes as well by using the offset in the settings menu from the control panel.

 

[Randy1]

As you have found ot every pit no matter what type or brand temperature reads differently than a well placed temperature probe. 20-25 F is is common. In the old days before probes we used oven thermometers then correlate that with pit mechanical probe which was often way off.
I use Thermoworks too. Good stuff.

 

[zelmo]

Thanks for the info. I never knew RecTeq smoothed out the readings so I was fearful a board was going bad. I can deal with the fluctuations as long as I know it happens.

 

[sandyut]

Couple thoughts:
I would either call or shoot Rec Teq an inquiry. They have always taken the time to help me understand what I am seeing and dial in some advanced settings.

The chamber probe they use is a thermistor or a Resistance Temperature Detector or something I forget what it is exactly, but its not a true thermometer. Comparing it to a thermometer will not match, again, I dont recall the explanation but theres that.