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Calibrate Your Kitchen Thermometer

Cooking Properly Means Using a Thermometer

From About.com

Updated: September 29, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Susan Olender, MD

Not sure your thermometer is working correctly?

  • Stick your thermometer in a glass of ice water that is well mixed.
  • The temperature of the thermometer should be 32 F (0 C).
  • If not, check to see if your thermometer has an adjustment screw and set it at 32 F (0 C) while it is sitting in the ice water.
  • If your digital thermometer is not giving you the proper reading, replace the battery and try the ice water test again.
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