Accurate Tank temp. readings

[machinistbcb]

I am not getting accurate temp readings on my storage tank. I am using coventional boiler temp/pressure gauges on the top, middle, and bottom of the tank. The gauges are in 1/2" pipe thats about 12" inches long coming out of the tank and I think that is the problem. I found some digital thermocouple type thermometers on ebay. Could I just tape the end of the thermocouple to the outside of the steel tank and get accurate readings? I would think the outside of the steel tank would be the same temp as the water inside within a few degrees.

 

[Sizzler]

Yes.

I use a digital panel thermometer ($25 on ebay item #330244224131) and ductaped the probe to the outside of my tank to monitor the temps at the bottom and use a 18" longstem thermometer 1/2" NPT threaded into the top of my tank in direct contact with the water to monitor temps in the top. Have compared the two and they read within 1 degree of each other so i would say that tapeing probes to the outside the tank works very well based on my own experience. I picked up a second panel thermometer so that i can read my boiler temps in F vs celcius. They are inexpensive and very accurate.

 

[Willman]

Have compared the two and they read within 1 degree of each other

Does this mean that you do not have stratification differences greater than 1* or so ? I thought the goal with storage tanks was to have more stratification. Could it be because you aren't using storage for heating house purposes ? Just trying to get a feel for tank choices for the future.

Will

 

[Sizzler]

I compared the two at the same location on the top of the tank prior to installing the probe near the bottom. Stratification is ok on a horizontal propane tank, but could be much better with the tank standing on end i would think . The tank is currently being used to heat DHW only, but will be used for home heating come Oct.

 

[Willman]

Thanks
Will