Negative Temperature Reading in the App

Understanding MEATER Ambient Temperature Sensors

For even more detail and understanding of ambient sensor features and function, see Ambient Temperature Sensor.

The ambient sensor on your MEATER probe measures the air temperature directly outside the meat. A negative or minus ambient temperature reading is not expected during a cook and usually indicates a problem with the ambient sensor or the probe itself. 

Common Cause of Negative Ambient Temperature Readings

A negative or minus ambient temperature value is not caused by probe placement, cool air bubbles, moisture, or appliance heat variation. It is almost always the result of an internal probe fault. 

• Ambient Sensor Failure: A negative ambient temperature reading means the ambient sensor is no longer reporting valid temperature data.

Diagnosing Negative Ambient Sensor Readings

Check For Damage to the Probe

If your probe is showing a negative ambient temperature, inspect it for damage:

1. Almost all damage to MEATER probes appears on the ambient end (the part exposed to the cooking environment).
   • This is the black ceramic area at the tip.
2. Look closely at the ambient end of the probe.
   • Check for any cracks or chips in the black ceramic.
3. Make sure the metal ambient cap on the end cannot twist or be pulled out and separated from the ceramic casing. Also check whether the entire ceramic end can easily separate from the stainless steel probe shaft.
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   • If the probe is damaged, please reach out to us, and we'll explore the next options with you!

Gather Additional Information

If no visible physical damage is found, contact us with the following information in mind:

1. Note when you first noticed the negative ambient temperature reading and whether it happens consistently across cooks.

2. A consistently negative or minus ambient reading throughout a cook usually indicates an internal probe fault.