How to install Temperature Sensors in fridges and freezers

This installation guide explains how to install the Temperature Sensor to monitor fridges and freezers operating above -40°C.

Pre-requisite

  • Claim the sensor in Studio.
  • Set the heartbeat interval to 5 minutes. This will allow a quicker temperature reading and confirm the installation is correct. The sensor's configuration will be updated upon its next heartbeat. As the default heartbeat is set at 45 minutes, it's recommended to update the configuration at least one hour before installation.
  • Have a Mounting Bracket - Temperature for each sensor to be installed

1. Find the ideal location

Identify the best placement inside the unit. Place it near the products (), but not directly under a fan or near the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations (). 

Placing your sensor near the fan (right air conduit in the picture below) will report the coldest temperature, as cold air will be pushed from the outlet. This temperature may not represent the air temperature in the unit.

Placing your sensor near the suction intake (left air conduit in the picture below) should report the hottest temperature, as the hot air is sucked back in. This temperature can represent the air temperature inside the unit, especially if samples and product are near the conduit.

If space is limited by trays inside the unit, the sensor will usually fit at the back, behind the trays.

2. Prepare the bracket

Remove the protective plastic sheet from the adhesive pad located behind the mounting bracket.

3. Clean the mounting area

Thoroughly clean the area where the sensor will be mounted. Use cleaning agents that evaporate quickly, such as an Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) wipe, and dry the surface completely. 

Warm the area by rubbing it with a dry cloth or paper to remove any thin layer of ice that may be present in the fridge or freezer. This step will ensure proper adhesion. 

4. Mount the sensor

Place the mounting bracket in the unit. Press firmly for 5 to 10 seconds to ensure good contact between the adhesive tape and the unit wall.

Optionally, you can use a cable tie for mounting.

5. Verify installation

Verify the robustness of your installation by opening the sensor page in DT Studio: 

  1. The sensor is online .
  2. The sensor is reporting temperature data. 
  3. Ensure that the signal strength is good (not in boost mode).

Note: Boost mode () is a high-power transmission due to weak signal. Overtime, sensors in boost mode will use more energy, which will affect the battery life. Avoid High Power Boost Mode.

Once confirmed, update the sensor configuration (heartbeat and measurement interval) to the desired frequency.