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Is My Sensor Reading Inaccurate?

It is common to notice differences when comparing MOCREO sensors with refrigerator built-in displays or traditional thermometers. Usually, these discrepancies are not caused by a sensor malfunction, but by varying measurement principles and the complex environment inside cold storage units.

1. Why Comparisons Can Be Misleading

Refrigerator Display vs. MOCREO Sensor

  • Different Sensor Locations: Built-in sensors are often near cooling coils or air vents. MOCREO sensors are placed on shelves where temperatures are naturally higher.
  • Control vs. Ambient: Refrigerator displays often show the "Set Point" or a value used to trigger the compressor, rather than the actual average air temperature.
  • Temperature Gradients: Cold air is denser and sinks; areas near the door or top are often several degrees warmer than the back or bottom.

Traditional Thermometers vs. MOCREO Sensor

  • Measurement Technology: Different hardware and algorithms lead to different error margins.
  • Snapshot vs. Trend: Traditional thermometers only show a "snapshot" in time. MOCREO provides a continuous data curve, capturing fluctuations that a single glance at a manual thermometer would miss.

2. Understanding Environmental Impacts

Data fluctuations are often a sign that your appliance is working correctly.

Understanding Normal Data Patterns (Click to Expand)

Auto Defrost Cycles

Auto Defrost Cycle Chart * The Spike: A sudden temperature increase followed by a return to normal within minutes/hours. * The Reason: Appliances heat their internal coils to melt frost. This briefly warms the surrounding air.

Compressor Cycling

Compressor Cycling Chart * The Pattern: A consistent "sawtooth" wave on your graph. * The Reason: The cooling system periodically turns on to maintain the target range.

External Factors

Irregular Fluctuations Chart * Door Openings: Frequent openings allow warm, humid air to enter, causing irregular rises. * Malfunctions: Patterns that deviate significantly from your usual cycles may indicate an appliance issue rather than a sensor error.

3. Hardware Protection & Best Practices

⚠️ Critical Protection Warning

Except for the LS1 Sensor, MOCREO does NOT recommend placing the main sensor body directly inside low-temperature or high-humidity environments (such as refrigerators or freezers). * Damage Risk: Prolonged exposure to extreme cold and condensation can permanently damage internal hardware components. * The Correct Way: For sensors with external probes (like the MS1/LS2...), keep the main body outside the appliance and only run the probe inside.

!!! tip "Deployment Advice" If the external probe cable is preventing your refrigerator door from sealing properly, please visit our Best Deployment Practices Guide for professional setup suggestions.

4. How to Verify Accuracy (Scientific Method)

If you suspect your sensor is inaccurate, do not compare it to a different brand. Follow this standardized verification:

  1. Side-by-Side Test: Place two identical MOCREO models in the exact same location (keep probes parallel).
  2. Wait 24-48 Hours: Allow the sensors to stabilize through several cooling and defrost cycles.
  3. Analyze Results:
    • Matching Curves: If the patterns match but have a small fixed offset, use the Calibration/Compensation feature in the MOCREO Smart App (up to ±9℉ / ±5%).
    • Significant Deviation: If one sensor shows an entirely different pattern, please contact support.

Need Help?

If the 48-hour test shows inconsistent results, please contact us with: * The Serial Number (SN) of both sensors. * A photo of your sensor/probe placement. * A brief description of your environment (e.g., "Medical Grade Freezer" or "Kitchen Refrigerator").