Temperature Measurements

[oplein]

I have a mini-offset smoker, and the thermometer on the top has about a 3" stem. A thermometer placed on the grill surface reads about 25-30 degrees higher than the top thermometer. Should I adjust my temperature to walmartone allow for this difference? When a temperature is specified (such as 250 degrees) where is this temperature to be measured? On the grill surface, or from the themometer located on the smoker lid?

 

[normanaj]

You should measure your chamber temp as close to the food as possible and adjust accordingly.

 

[sandyut]

agreed. My WSM lid thermometer was horribly off, I dont truth those ever. Get a good air probe that you can clip the the grate next to the meat. I use the Thermoworks DOT with their air probe.

I am sure there are bluetooth versions out there as well. I have had these for years and they are rock solid. But do require feet and eyes bahaha.

Oh yes! Welcome to the site!!

 

[sawhorseray]

Welcome to SMF, you found the right spot! Thermometers that come with BBQ smokers are notorious for being inaccurate. I use a ThermoPro TP20 with dual probes and a remote. As you can see in the picture, clip one probe right onto the grill next to the meat, the other into whatever meat you're smoking. The remote will allow you to watch TV or do other stuff while still being able to monitor your fire. There's usually at least a 30º difference between the dial thermometer on my offset and what the probe next to the meat reads. RAY