Ensuring ROI with a temperature monitoring device

Time and again, temperature monitoring has proven to be one of the most effective methods to protect your inventory and put money in your pocket. Most businesses in the foodservice industry already utilize temperature monitoring protocols as part of daily operations. Commonly, foodservice teams accomplish this task manually through the use of thermometers. While thermometers are inexpensive and easy to use, they are inaccurate and require excess time and labor to track accrued data. 

Remote temperature monitoring devices automate the processes associated with manual temperature monitoring. Still, managers and operators throughout the foodservice industry face a variety of unknowns when considering remote temperature monitoring devices. Namely:

• What are the benefits of remote temperature monitoring devices? 
• How much do they cost? 
• Will I see a return on investment?  

While these questions may seem complicated, the answers are more straightforward than you would expect. Read on to learn more. 

The benefits of remote temperature monitoring 

Most temperature monitoring devices fall into categories: manual and wireless. The centerpiece of manual temperature monitoring is the thermometer. Restaurant teams place thermometers in cold storage spaces such as freezers, low boys, and walk-ins. At routine intervals, staff audit these spaces and record the data they find on paper logs for internal records and to prove compliance with local health regulations.

Properly calibrated sensors

Manual temperature monitoring is fraught with problems that render it less effective than alternative methods. Temperature drift caused by improper calibration can skew data, making it challenging to draw actionable insights into the state of your cold storage.

Click here to read our article about temperature calibration. 

Using remote temperature monitoring ensures you receive correct data every time. Therma’s remote temperature monitoring system is proven to be effective within .5°F. 

Click here to learn more about our product specifications. 

Reduced labor time

While temperature audits may take only a few minutes to complete, regulations require that teams complete them multiple times per day. Before using Therma° Justin Hope of the Geneva County School District estimates that his cafeteria staff spent about an hour every day checking temperatures manually. Foodservice teams face the rigors of busy service periods and may not put the effort towards properly conducting checks, leading to “pencil whipped” or forged logs. 

Click here to learn more about pencil whipping and how to prevent it. 

In contrast, remote temperature monitoring devices require no side work for your team. Once installed, sensors constantly measure the temperature of your cold storage equipment. When temperatures exceed threshold, you’re immediately alerted and can make timely decisions to protect your inventory and equipment. 

The cost of a temperature monitoring device 

Temperature monitoring devices vary significantly in cost. However, thanks to recent advances in technology, there are many options to fit your specific needs. For large enterprises, many manufacturers sell temperature monitoring devices in bulk. Buying in bulk often leads to discounts on each device, making them a good fit for multi-location businesses. However, purchasing hardware requires high upfront costs, rendering them inaccessible to small franchises or family-owned restaurants. 

Other temperature monitoring platforms, like Therma°, rely on a per sensor, monthly pricing model. Therma° costs $10 per sensor per month with no contracts, creating limited risk for those who want to participate in a pilot program. If you find yourself unsatisfied with Therma°, simply cancel your subscription with no penalties or hidden fees. 

Return on investment

As with pricing, your ROI depends on the size of your business, the value of your inventory, and the amount of cold storage you own. However, before you track ROI, consider how much inventory you currently waste. The average restaurant spends about 35% of its budget on inventory. On an annual basis, restaurants waste up to 10% of that inventory. Using Therma°, foodservice businesses can expect to save $15,000 per year, accounting for an additional 1.3% profit annually. 

Some of Therma’s customers experienced even better results. Skyline Chili saw a 15% ROI, accounting for $18,000 after one year of using Therma°, while Eggs Up Grill saw a 25% ROI and once prevented $1000 of food waste at one time. 

To see how much money you can save, click here to use our ROI calculator.

Curious about our temperature monitoring device?

At Therma° we make it easy for you to protect your inventory and put money back in your pocket. With no contracts or order requirements and low upfront costs, Therma’s temperature monitoring devices are an excellent option for any size business. 

Click below to see how you can better manage your cold storage and save money with Therma°.