Dave,

My suggestion to you is to treat this like other things that people want to be able to rely on. If you want it to work when you really need it, check it periodically when you don't need it. I'm not sure how long these things last for you, but I suggest you mark your calendar to check it every 3 or 6 months.

Digital thermometers are cheap (

The old digital specimen I have doesn't have a memory feature, the battery lasts for *years*.

I've had a couple digital medical thermometers, and a digital cooking thermometer all for probably over 12 years and have never had a problem or changed a battery in them. Not sure what kind of memory function one of these would have but I don't doubt you that yours does - but the memory should usually be non-volatile or not enough of a current requirement to cause a problem.

Along the lines of similar products that use small button cell batteries, however, if you have changed the battery and the original was something like an SR44 - Do Not use an LR44 or AG13 alkaline replacement for the original SR44 silver oxide battery - they will not last.

Also, make sure the thermometers are stored in a cool area to prolong battery life.

Problem solved. Thank you for the responses. I appreciate them.