How do I check the temperature of my dishmachine?

If using a high-temperature dishmachine, read the temperature that is on the gauge and record the exact value on the Daily -- Operation Inspection form.  A high-temperature dishmachine uses hot water that is at 180 degrees or hotter to wash dishes.  If the dishmachine is a single-rack dishmachine, the water only needs to be at 165 degrees F or hotter.  If you are using a low-temperature dishmachine, you are using a chemical sanitizer in the final rinse.  Therefore, measure the ppm.

Some schools use thermolabels to measure the final rinse temperature in a high-temperature dishmachine.  This is an acceptable method as well.  If a thermolabel is used, simply mark the box with an "X."  Remember though, if you are reading the temperature from the gauge, you must record the exact value. 

Prepared: October 2006

If you have questions, contact Dr. Angela Fraser, Associate Professor/Food Safety Education Specialist, Clemson University, Clemson, SC.

Clemson University is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate against any person or group on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

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