Magnetic (electric) thermometer for exterior of woodstove

[Shari]

I have a magnetic (electric) thermometer for the exterior surface of my woodstove. The thermometer was built 13 or so years ago by a member of Hearth.com and has served me very well all these years. I was doing some cleaning and moved it around and also removed the magnet from the woodstove. After dusting it off, it gave me an "EEEE" error and beeped at me. I pushed the red reset button which appears to have cleared the error message.

I am thinking I should start looking into a replacement for this thermometer but not sure where to look nor what to get.

I do recall we had a problem getting this to 'read' correctly. It was apparently because of the non-flat surface of the top of my blue-black Oslo. We tried out a different magnet which solved the problem.

Here are a few pictures of what I have. Any suggestions on replacing or maintenance would be appreciated!

Shari

 

[begreen]

It might be ok if still working. Or the thermocouple wiring may have developed a break or short which could be intermittent. If wiggling the thermocouple wire causes the EEEE error then replacing the thermocouple may need replacing.

For a new thermometer, many people including myself have the Auber Digital thermometer, but first, verify that the unit is not repairable.

 

[Shari]

BG: Okay, still getting the "EEEE" error. By your statement of thermocouple, do you mean just the braided wire or something internal? Electrical repairs are not my forte.

 

[Shari]

BG: Okay, still getting the "EEEE" error. By your statement of thermocouple, do you mean just the braided wire or something internal? Electrical repairs are not my forte.

Replying to myself: I think the problem is at the magnet end of the braided wire. Can I just cut that wire and put a new fitting on it?

 

[begreen]

I think it would be better to replace the thermocouple assembly. They are not expensive. It needs one with a washer end.

K type Thermocouple, Washer Probe [TC-K-WS] - $15.85 : Auber Instruments, Inc., Temperature control solutions for home and industry

Auber Instruments, Inc. K type Thermocouple, Washer Probe [TC-K-WS] - This K type thermocouple is to be mounted on the surface of the pipe or stove with a #10 screw. Maximum working temperature: 900°C (1650°F). Cable insulation: Fiberglass with stainless steel overbraid (600°F max continuous...

www.auberins.com

Or, you could put a simple dial thermometer in that location. I just tested a ReoTemp thermometer and am pleased with the results.

New stove toy - Reotemp thermometer

I saw this in a shot a couple weeks ago and thought it would be good to try it out. I am a sucker for glass covered, easy to read thermomters. The only thing I know of on the market like it is the Tel-Tru for about $65. This one was $20 and so far it is an exact match for my IR thermometer. The...

www.hearth.com