There are 3 different lines on the temperature graph: 

1. The blue Air Temperature line reflects the temperature measured by the sensor and will typically change quickly throughout the day.
   • Air temperatures rise and fall as the refrigeration system cycles on and off
   • Opening doors, restocking product, or other normal activity can cause short-term temperature changes
   • These fluctuations are expected and help show what the equipment is experiencing in real time
2. The green Product Temperature line estimates how the internal temperature of stored food responds to those changing air temperatures.
   • Food warms and cools more slowly than the air around it
   • The product temperature line is smoother and reacts with a delay compared to the air temperature line
   • This provides a better representation of the temperatures your food may actually experience over time
3. The red Compliant Maximum and Minimum temperature lines show the max and min compliant temperatures that you set in the equipment template
   • To change these, edit the equipment template. For instructions on how to do so, see Create Equipment Templates
4. Comparing both the Air Temperature and Product Temperature lines helps distinguish brief air temperature fluctuations from conditions that could impact product quality and food safety.
   • Short air temperature spikes may have little effect on product temperature
   • Longer or repeated temperature excursions can gradually affect stored product temperatures
   • Product-based alerts can be used to notify you when estimated food temperatures approach critical thresholds

1. Most coolers and freezers cycle on and off throughout the day. This creates a “sawtooth” wave pattern in the Air Temperature line on the temperature graph
   • These ups and downs are normal and show the compressor maintaining temperature
   • You’ll see regular dips and rises as the system works to stay within its set range

1. In addition to the sawtooth pattern, you may notice brief temperature spikes in the Air Temperature line every 4–6–8 hours. These are defrost cycles and are also normal.
   • Freezer spikes may go above 32°F
   • Cooler spikes may go above 42°F
   • These spikes are short and should not trigger alerts during normal operation
2. Think of these as quick peaks above the regular rhythm—they’re part of the system keeping itself clean and efficient.

While some variation is expected, certain patterns may indicate a problem. Watch for: 

1. Extended periods (2+ hours) of abnormally high temperatures. Possible causes may be:
   • Doors left open during busy times
   • Damaged or loose door seals
   • Equipment struggling to keep up with frequent use

1. Gradual temperature increases over days or weeks
   • Outside of defrost cycles, temperatures should remain fairly steady
   • If you notice a consistent upward or downward trend, it may be time to schedule preventative maintenance