Oven temperature probe: what is it, why is it needed, how to use it correctly?

An oven temperature probe allows you to accurately determine the temperature. If it is built into the oven, the information is displayed on the display. Moreover, when a certain level and period of time is reached, the device automatically turns off. If it does not work correctly, you need to check it with a multimeter, clean it and, if necessary, replace it. The article describes how to do this.

Purpose and types of device

First of all, you need to understand what a temperature probe is in an oven. It consists of 2 conductors that are connected to each other at one point (there are also several). They contact a sensor that monitors temperature changes. As soon as it rises or falls, a voltage arises in the device, after which a specific value is displayed on the display.

Thus, a temperature probe is a device that controls temperature. This eliminates the possibility of overheating. The main function of the device is to determine the temperature of the dish. Basically we are talking about meat, the preparation of which requires adherence to precise timing.

To understand how to use an oven thermometer, you need to familiarize yourself with the main types of device:

1. Wired - a classic device that connects to the oven via a wire. For this purpose, it has a special hole.This type of instrument is called a thermal probe (thermal probe for short).
2. Wireless – it is stored directly in the oven door. It doesn't need to be connected to a channel, so it's more convenient. We can say about the wireless temperature probe in the oven that this is a modern device that is equipped with advanced models of cabinets.

There is another classification related to the principle of operation:

1. Mechanical devices – affordable, simple and convenient design. For use in ovens only, not in cabinets. The accuracy is low and decreases over time.
2. Electronic – such probes are used inside ovens. Moreover, the temperature is measured only at the moment the dish is removed, and not when it is cooked. The accuracy is higher than mechanical.
3. Digital – used both to determine the temperature in a cold and hot dish. It is used only in the cupboard - such a thermometer is not used in the oven.

Moreover, regardless of the type, the temperature probe has several differences from a conventional thermometer:

• the temperature is displayed on the oven display, which is very convenient;
• the device is programmed to automatically turn off when a certain temperature or time is reached;
• Thanks to this, the cooking process is completely autonomous, and it is not necessary to control it.

How to install a temperature probe

At the preparatory stage, you need to understand how to install a thermometer in the oven. In modern models, the probe is already built into the system - no additional installation is required. But sometimes you need to purchase a device separately and put it in a closet.

Before cooking, place it closer to the dish and stick the probe into the food, for example, into a piece of meat. Various mounting options:

• fix on the grid;
• Another option for installing a thermometer in the oven of a gas stove is to hang it on hooks that are located on the side or on the door;
• place on a sealant (use a special composition that is resistant to high temperatures and safe for health).

Instructions for use

Next, you need to analyze how to use the temperature probe. The sequence of actions is as follows:

1. Before use, remove the cover and install the batteries.
2. Find the sensor connector and insert it into the socket.
3. Insert the probe itself into the center of the meat. It is important to understand how to use a kitchen thermometer. The piece should not be pierced through - it must be inserted halfway deep.
4. The probe is positioned so that no part of it comes into contact with the baking sheet or other surface that will heat up.
5. A modern oven probe is equipped with several programs. You need to click “Type” and select, for example, “Veal” or “Lamb”. There are also programs for cooking cutlets, minced meat, chicken, and fish.
6. The desired temperature parameter is set manually.
7. After preparation is completed, the probe is removed. It is hot, so you need to work in special gloves.

Now it’s clear how to use a meat probe in the oven. The device is quite simple and gives accurate temperature readings (especially modern electronic and digital models). This allows you to cook meat to the ideal degree of doneness, which is especially important for boiled pork, roast beef, steak and other popular dishes.