Commercial Refrigeration Monitoring Methods
There are several methods that can be used to monitor the temperature of a commercial refrigerator or freezer. The most popular Commercial Refrigeration Monitoring methods are:
- Use a Thermometer: This is the most basic method and involves placing a commercial food thermometer inside the refrigerator to measure the temperature.
- Use a Digital thermometer with remote monitoring: This type of digital thermometer can be placed inside the refrigerator and connected to a remote monitoring device, such as a smartphone or computer, to allow for monitoring the temperature remotely.
- Use a Temperature data logger: A data logger can be placed inside the refrigerator and records temperature data over time, which can then be analyzed to track temperature trends and identify any issues.
- Use a Wireless temperature sensor: Wireless temperature sensors can be placed inside the refrigerator and communicate with a central monitoring system, allowing for real-time monitoring and alerts when temperatures fall outside of safe ranges.
Many restaurants, schools, airports and manufacturers are turning to Wireless Temperature Sensors for refrigeration monitoring due to their economical price and ease of installation.
Wireless temperature sensors are used in commercial refrigeration monitoring to ensure the temperature inside refrigeration units are the correct ranges and to alert staff if temperatures fall outside of safe ranges.
These sensors typically consist of a small device with a probe that can be placed inside the refrigeration unit, which wirelessly transmits temperature data to a central monitoring device (commonly called a gateway).
An example of a wireless temperature sensor is our SS3-105 Temperature Sensor with Probe.
The wireless temperature sensors can be integrated with a cloud-based monitoring system, that allows staff to monitor the temperature of their refrigeration units remotely. This allows staff to be alerted of any temperature issues, even when they are not on-site, and to take action to resolve the issue before it becomes a major problem. This can help to prevent food spoilage, equipment failure, and other issues that can result from poor temperature control in commercial refrigeration.
Additionally, the wireless temperature sensors can be used for tracking temperature data over time. This data can be used to identify temperature trends and to optimize refrigeration unit performance, as well as to help identify potential maintenance issues before they become major problems.
Complete temperature monitoring systems exist for common industries such as Restaurants, Schools, and Manufacturing. These temperature monitoring solutions typically include 3 components:
1. Wireless Sensors. Small devices that record the temperatures and transmit these wirelessly to a central gateway.
2. Gateway. Small network device that collects temperature measurement readings wirelessly from the sensors and transmits these readings up to a secure cloud account.
3. Monitoring Plan. The monitoring plan is typically associated with an online cloud account that allows you to view your sensors from anywhere. The cloud system typically includes the ability to set Threshold Ranges and Alarm Notifications.
What are the proper temperatures for commercial refrigeration
The proper temperatures for commercial refrigeration depend on the type of food being stored and the specific requirements of the health department or regulatory agency. Generally, the following temperature ranges are considered safe for commercial refrigeration:
- Refrigerated storage (for perishable foods such as meats, dairy, and produce): 33°F to 40°F (0.5°C to 4.4°C)
- Freezer storage (for frozen foods): 0°F (-18°C)
- Walk-in refrigerators and freezers: 33°F to 40°F (0.5°C to 4.4°C) and 0°F (-18°C) respectively
It is important to note that these are general guidelines and specific temperature ranges may vary depending on local regulations or the type of food being stored. It is also important to check the temperature regularly, especially after opening and closing the door, and to make sure that the refrigeration equipment is working properly.
You will also want to consider a complete temperature monitoring system that records the temperature at regular intervals and sends alerts if the temperature goes out of range.
How often should the refrigerator temperature be monitored?
The frequency at which the temperature of a commercial refrigerator should be monitored depends on a number of factors, including the type of food being stored, local regulations, and the specific requirements of the health department or regulatory agency.
As a general guideline, it is recommended to check the temperature of the refrigerator at least once a day, and more frequently if there are any concerns about the equipment or if the door is being opened and closed frequently.
Swift Sensors offers wireless temperature sensors that can check the temperature as low as a 1 minute interval.
To learn more about wireless temperature sensors and refrigeration monitoring, please visit our website.
