Tel-Tru BQ500 Glow Dial BBQ Thermometer — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tel-Tru BQ500 Glow Dial Thermometer?
The Tel-Tru BQ500 is a high-quality dial thermometer made for BBQs and smokers. It features a **5-inch glow-in-the-dark dial** and a 4-inch stem (in one common variant). It’s designed for reading grill or smoker temperatures, especially useful at night.
What are its specifications and performance range?
• Temperature range: **100 to 500 °F**
• External parts: 304 stainless steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance
• Lens: Glass dial cover
• Mounting: Requires a **7/8" drilled hole** (common for many BBQ installs)
• Connection / thread: ½″ NPT (in many versions)
How do I install and use it?
1. Drill or use an existing 7/8″ hole in your grill or smoker lid or body.
2. Insert the 4″ stem through the hole and thread or secure using the included nut.
3. Make sure the dial face is oriented properly so it’s readable.
4. Close the nut securely, ensuring a tight seal without over-torquing.
5. Use the glow dial feature to read temperatures even in low light or nighttime grilling.
6. Periodically check calibration and clean the lens to maintain visibility and accuracy.
What are its advantages and what should I watch out for?
Advantages:
• Glow dial lets you read temperatures at night or in dim lighting.
• Durable stainless steel construction resists rust and outdoor conditions.
• Wide temperature range suitable for most BBQ and smoking scenarios.
• Easy to install on most smokers with a standard 7/8″ hole.
Cautions / limitations:
• The glow feature may dim over many years — it’s not infinitely luminous.
• Ensure the stem is fully within the cooking chamber for accurate measurement — avoid contact with food, flames, or hot surfaces.
• Glass lens is breakable — avoid intense impact.
• Like all dial thermometers, regular calibration checks are a good practice to maintain accuracy.
• Ensure the mounting nut is snug but not overly tight — you don’t want to risk cracking the dial or bending the stem.
