I have finally found a great solution for monitoring mash temp inside my 10 gal Rubbermaid MLT, and I thought I would post here for anyone who has a similar problem.
Background: Originally I used a standard BBQ thermometer with an L shaped probe. I dangled the probe inside the cooler and closed the lid on top of it. My temp readings were unreliable, the mashing process was very frustrating and I ended up with underattenuated brews that I find unpleasant. I believe the two main causes were: the probe didn’t always end up in the grist after I spun the lid closed and I’m pretty sure these are not waterproof.
I wanted a solution that met the following criteria:
- Ability to read temp without removing the lid
- No drilling into the side of the cooler (a leak waiting to happen)
- The hole used for probe insertion can be easily sealed to prevent heat loss
- Absolute assurance that I know where the probe tip is in the grain bed
- The probe can be easily removed even during the mash if needed
- Waterproof probe
- Reliable accuracy
- Digital display
- Can use the thermometer for other purposes
Here is what I cam up with:
http://s564.photobucket.com/albums/ss81/kcbeersnob/Brewing/?action=view¤t=IMG_1462.jpg
http://s564.photobucket.com/albums/ss81/kcbeersnob/Brewing/?action=view¤t=IMG_1467.jpg
Parts list:
-
#2 stopper
-
1/8" OD stainless steel rod
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H9MT08/ref=oh_o05_s00_i00_details -
Thermoworks Therma K
http://www.thermoworks.com/products/handheld/therma_k.html -
113-372-T Waterproof probe
http://www.thermoworks.com/products/probe/tc_wire.html
Procedure:
- Drill a hole into the stopper for the rod and probe wire
- Drill a hole into the cooler lid
- Cut the rod to the desired length (I wanted it to reach the bottom of the cooler and extend a couple inches above the lid)
- Insert the probe wire through the hole
- Insert the rod through the hole
- Adjust the position of the probe tip in relation to the bottom of the rod
- Snake the wire around the rod a couple times
I find that the stopper and snaking of the wire keeps the probe tip in place.
Edited to fix link to photos
