Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Temperature Sensors in Fridges and Freezers

Install the Temperature Sensor in the Buffer

After securing the temperature buffer to the middle shelf with cable ties, you can install the temperature sensor. If your fridge or freezer has a cable entry port, feed the sensor through it. Otherwise, you will need to pass the cable through the door seal. Follow these steps for proper installation:

1. Insert the temperature sensor into the thermowell that provides the best fit.
2. Use a cable tie to secure the sensor cable to the shelf wire as close to the buffer as possible, leaving a little slack to prevent accidental dislodging.
3. Secure the remaining sensor cable along the shelf using cable ties. Route the cable toward the side where the door closes and attach a cable tie near the end to keep it in place.
4. Ensure the cable is straight and level where it passes between the door face and seal to maintain a proper seal and prevent damage.

Installing the Temperature Sensor Cable Seal

The Telemetry2U temperature sensor cable seal is designed to securely route sensor cables into fridges and freezers while preventing cold air leaks and ice build-up. It provides a snug fit around the cable, protecting the door seal from damage. Follow these steps for installation:

1. Position the cable seal over the sensor cable, ensuring it fills as much of the gap as possible when the door is closed. Mark the location with a pencil.
2. Peel off the protective backing from the double-sided tape on the seal and firmly attach it to the front of the fridge or freezer at the marked position.
3. Bend the cable around the side of the fridge or freezer and attach a self-adhesive cable tie mount as close to the edge as possible. Secure the sensor cable to the mount using a small cable tie.

Finalising the Installation

With the temperature sensor securely in place, the final steps ensure that your setup is neat, secure, and optimised for reliable data transmission. Properly positioning the node and managing cables will help maintain signal strength and prevent accidental damage. Follow these steps to complete the installation:

1. If applicable, connect the temperature sensor to the LoRaWAN or NB-IoT node.
2. Mount the node high on the fridge or freezer using its built-in magnets. If the node has an external antenna, position it so that it extends above the unit to avoid signal obstruction.
3. Use self-adhesive cable tie mounts as needed to organise the cable and keep it out of the way.
4. Neatly wrap any excess cable around the node and secure it with a cable tie. Ensure the cable is not bent too sharply and that there is some slack to prevent strain on the connector.

Optional - Enter the asset details

For temperature monitoring in NATA-accredited laboratories and facilities, annual or bi-annual NATA traceable temperature verifications are often required. Telemetry2U has streamlined this process by automating key steps, reducing manual effort, and ensuring compliance.

When a technician conducts an on-site verification, all details are recorded directly within the Telemetry2U platform. A calibration certificate is then automatically generated and made available for download by all users. If equipment details have been entered correctly, the system will populate them on the certificate automatically.

To add or update equipment details, log in to Telemetry2U and navigate to Nodes Maintenance >> Add / Edit Nodes and Devices from the sidebar. Click the Edit link next to the relevant device, scroll to the bottom of the page, and complete the Optional – Equipment Details section.