Max-Min Thermometers

[Colin_M]

Can anyone recommend a good model or place to buy a thermometer that shows max and minimum temperatures?

I bought one from B&Q last year that cost around £12, and had both the traditional alcohol tube and a digital readout (though I'm happy to have just one or the other). This seemed to work ok then, but is showing really wacky readings this year.

I'm reluctant to go and get another one of these from B&Q (in case it's a design fault). Any views on alternatives you have would be appreciated.

[Chantal]

I use the ones sold in Wilkinsons for around £6. I have two and find they work very well (not digital) except when I drop them on the floor and the mercury gets broken up. It is worth checking this before you purchase as it appears the staff also hurl them to the ground from time to time.

[alan refail]

Colin

Take it back - I've found B&Q very goo0d about changing things (even without a receipt). Worth a try.

[Tigger]

I think one of mine came from Wilkinson's and the other from a garden centre.

Both similar in appearance and very reliable. Neither of them have a digital readout though.

[John]

Hello Chantal
If the mercury thread splits into several parts you can usually get it all back together again by holding it with the base away from you and giving it several very sharp flicks with your wrist (rather like nurses would do with an old fashioned clinical thermometer).

John

[mandylew]

I second the wilco recommendation, i'm on to my second in 10 years, and alas that was because i dropped the first, and yes lots in store do have little bubbles in the tube so do check them. I'd go to b&Q get a refund and buy a wilco one!

[Colin_M]

Take it back - I've found B&Q very goo0d about changing things (even without a receipt).

Thanks alan, it may be worth a try.
However given how its failed, it's making me worry whether this is an underlying flaw.

It was easy to see there was a problem when it showed daytime temperatures of 40C during March! However if a replacement showed 10C when it was actually 5C, then some of my toms & peppers might be affected by such an under-reading.

In the meantime, I'll also look for a local Wilkonsons (never used them before).

[Brooklynodog]

Theres a Wilkos in Bridgwater and Taunton Colin, maybe a bit far for you though.