In any commercial kitchen, accuracy in temperature control is non-negotiable. Whether you’re checking food safety, ensuring perfect cooking results, or monitoring appliance performance, using the right thermometer for the job is essential.
From refrigerators and ovens to coffee machines and deep fryers, here’s your comprehensive guide to choosing the correct thermometer for every application—plus trusted brands like HLP and Chef Inox to consider.
1.
Fridge and Freezer Thermometers
Purpose: To monitor and maintain safe cold storage temperatures.
Ideal Range:
Fridges: 1°C to 4°C
- Freezers: -18°C or lower
Recommended Types:
- Dial thermometers (easy to read, no batteries)
- Digital thermometers (more precise and often with alarm features)
Brands to Consider:
- HLP offers reliable digital fridge/freezer thermometers with alarms.
- Chef Inox provides compact, stainless-steel dial options suitable for walk-in units or underbench refrigeration.
2.
Oven Thermometers
Purpose: To verify the actual temperature inside an oven, which can vary from the set temperature.
Ideal Range: Up to 300°C or higher
Recommended Types:
- Oven-safe dial thermometers that sit or hang inside the oven
- Digital probe thermometers with oven-safe cords for real-time monitoring
Brands to Consider:
- Chef Inox oven thermometers are durable, heat-resistant, and easy to calibrate.
- HLP digital probes with timers and alarms are great for precise baking and roasting.
3.
Coffee Thermometers
Purpose: To ensure water and milk are at optimal temperatures for espresso and frothing.
Ideal Range:
- Espresso brewing: 90–96°C
- Milk frothing: 60–70°C
Recommended Types:
- Dial thermometers with clips for milk jugs
- Digital instant-read thermometers for water temperature
Brands to Consider:
- Chef Inox milk thermometers come with jug clips and easy-to-read dials.
- HLP offers fast-response digital options for barista-level control.
4.
Food (Core Temperature) Thermometers
Purpose: To check internal temperatures of meats, poultry, and prepared foods for safety and quality.
Food Safety Guidelines:
- Chicken: 75°C
- Beef (medium): 60–65°C
- Reheated foods: 74°C
Recommended Types:
- Instant-read digital thermometers for speed and accuracy
- Probe thermometers with alarms for cooking and holding
Brands to Consider
- HLP’s waterproof, NSF-rated models are great for high-traffic kitchens.
- Chef Inox analog and digital models are simple, rugged, and food-safe.
5.
Deep Fry Thermometers
Purpose: To monitor oil temperature for frying to prevent burning or undercooking.
Ideal Range: 160–190°C
Recommended Types:
- Clip-on analog thermometers that attach to fryer baskets or pots
- Digital deep fry thermometers with high-heat probes
Brands to Consider:
- Chef Inox offers traditional candy/fry thermometers with clear markings.
- HLP makes digital models with oil-safe probes and temperature alerts.
6.
Water Thermometers
Purpose: For tasks like dough proofing, tea brewing, or hot water sanitation.
Ideal Range: Varies by task (usually 30–100°C)
Recommended Types:
- Digital waterproof thermometers
- Floating or immersion thermometers for tanks and containers
Brands to Consider:
- HLP’s waterproof digital thermometers are great for precision.
- Chef Inox’s floating thermometers are ideal for large containers or brewing.
7.
Infrared (IR) Thermometers
Purpose: To measure surface temperatures without contact—ideal for grill tops, flat surfaces, or receiving goods.
Ideal Use: When speed, hygiene, or distance is important
Recommended Features:
- Laser targeting for accuracy
- Dual-laser or adjustable emissivity for professional use
Brands to Consider:
- HLP infrared models feature fast scanning and dual laser targeting.
- Chef Inox carries handheld IR guns suitable for both front- and back-of-house use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the correct thermometer depends on the task, required temperature range, and desired accuracy. Investing in the right tools—whether for monitoring freezer temps, checking the doneness of food, or dialing in a perfect coffee—helps ensure safety, consistency, and quality.
Brands like HLP and Chef Inox are trusted across Australia and beyond for their reliability, affordability, and durability in high-performance commercial environments.
