Thermometer and an insert - suggestions please

[Gripptide]

I have an insert and want to add a thermometer. I did a brief search on this site and found a few things, but they were from a while ago. The manual for my insert suggests putting the thermometer on the flue pipe, but that is not accessible on an easy/regular basis. I am looking to see what others have done.

The possibilities i thought of include:

• placement of magnetic thermometer on visible part of insert and try to get best reading
• IR gun
• Digital thermometer where i can fasten the cord up the pipe and run it outside somehow and sit display next to the insert (like used in a grill or smoker - not sure if they make something like that that can withstand that high heat and is not cost prohibitive).

All suggestions appreciated, so let me know if there is another way to do it.

Thanks

 

[velvetfoot]

I'd say IR gun. Then there won't be any question of aesthetics. I'm not sure I see the need for a thermometer if you have a glass window, once you know how the termperatures look like, say, with that IR gun.

 

[MofoG23]

Whatever you use, it should be placed in the center above your door (or directly below the blower output). I prefer an IR gun for instant checks....

 

[Gripptide]

Thanks - anyone else?

 

[dawg1419]

I pour my own soft plastic fishing baits and have found any IR themo. We has sold is always 10 degrees off fyi. If it reads 300 its really 290

 

[rwhite]

I have about 6" protruding on my insert. My magnetic thermometer is centered on top. They are usually not very accurate and become more of a guide as you learn to burn. I know mine is not accurate but it reads the same way every time so I know when it's getting to hot or is ready for a reload.

 

[MofoG23]

I pour my own soft plastic fishing baits and have found any IR themo. We has sold is always 10 degrees off fyi. If it reads 300 its really 290

Yep, I actually have two IR guns that disagree. One my father gave me (high end commercial unit) and a gun I picked up from Lowes for $30....they seem to differ about 10. It does bug me (OCD?), but in the grand scheme of things, 10 with a wood stove is not a huge issue.

 

[dawg1419]

I didnt think it wood be an issue just letting people know.

 

[WES999]

If you want to go a bit more high tech ( and cost) I think you could use one of these:
http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=17&products_id=292

I have something similar on my stove ( free standing) but it should work fine for an insert.

IMO the a digital thermo/alarm is much better than the basic by-metal thermo.