Simmerstat vs. Thermostat: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on October 11, 2023
Simmerstat is a device regulating heat in cooking appliances, while a thermostat maintains desired temperatures in various systems.
Key Differences
Simmerstat and thermostat both pertain to controlling temperatures, but they find their distinctions in application and range. The simmerstat is more specific in its usage, primarily found in cooking devices like electric stoves. This device ensures precise control over the heat delivered, ideal for simmering or maintaining specific temperatures without fluctuations. On the other hand, thermostats possess broader applications. These are present in heating and cooling systems, such as HVAC units, ovens, and refrigerators. They work by gauging the current temperature and activating or deactivating a system to maintain the set temperature.
While simmerstat predominantly relates to cooking, the thermostat has permeated various domains. Simmerstats help in attaining that perfect simmer in culinary processes, ensuring dishes aren't overcooked or scorched. Thermostats, versatile in nature, ensure comfort in households by maintaining optimal room temperatures, preserving food freshness in refrigerators, or baking the perfect cake in an oven.
The mechanism of both devices differs too. Simmerstats usually operate by cycling power on and off to maintain the desired heat, making them relatively simple. Thermostats, conversely, can be more intricate, with modern ones boasting features like programmable settings, remote control, and integration with smart home systems.
A commonality between simmerstat and thermostat is the user's ability to set a desired level. However, while the former typically utilizes numbered settings without direct temperature reference, thermostats usually allow users to set specific temperatures. Both devices, though distinct in their applications, underscore the importance of temperature control in their respective realms.
Comparison Chart
Primary Usage
Cooking appliances
Heating and cooling systems
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Temperature Range
Typically high for cooking
Varies from cold to hot
Complexity
Relatively simple
Can be advanced with modern features
Control Mechanism
Cycles power for desired heat
Activates/deactivates system
Settings
Numbered without direct temp reference
Allows specific temperature settings
Simmerstat and Thermostat Definitions
Simmerstat
A controller that maintains steady temperatures in stovetops.
My new cooktop's simmerstat ensures even and consistent heating.
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Thermostat
A component that maintains desired temperatures in appliances.
The oven's thermostat ensures even baking.
Simmerstat
A component ensuring dishes aren't scorched or overcooked.
Thanks to the simmerstat, my delicate sauces never burn.
Thermostat
A device that regulates the temperature of a system.
I adjusted the thermostat to warm up the room.
Simmerstat
A device regulating heat in electric cooking appliances.
I turned the simmerstat down to prevent the soup from boiling.
Thermostat
A controller in heating and cooling systems like HVAC units.
The office's thermostat is set to a comfortable 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Simmerstat
A mechanism in stoves cycling power for desired heat levels.
The simmerstat cycles the power to maintain a gentle simmer for the stew.
Thermostat
A modern tool in homes, often programmable or smart.
Our new smart thermostat can be controlled through our phones.
Simmerstat
A heat control solution in culinary devices.
Professional chefs prefer stoves with a precise simmerstat for gourmet dishes.
Thermostat
A device, as in a home heating system, a refrigerator, or an air conditioner, that automatically responds to temperature changes and activates switches controlling the equipment.
Simmerstat
An electrical control device that turns a heating element such as a stove, hotplate or grill on and off in a user-selectable duty cycle: for example, five of every 20 seconds.
Thermostat
A device that automatically responds to changes in temperature by activating a heating or cooling system to maintain the temperature at a desired setting.
Thermostat
(physics) An algorithm used to maintain a simulated system at a set temperature by absorbing or releasing heat
Thermostat
A device which automatically regulates temperature, or provides a signal used by another device to regulate temperature. The temperature-sensitive signal may be electronic, as that produced by a thermocouple. The signal may also be caused mechanically, as by the unequal expansion of different metals, liquids, or gases by heat, which can then cause the opening or closing of the damper of a stove, or the like, as the heat becomes greater or less than is desired.
Thermostat
A regulator for automatically regulating temperature by starting or stopping the supply of heat
Thermostat
Control the temperature with a thermostat
Thermostat
A gauge activating or deactivating systems based on set temperatures.
The thermostat turned the heater on as the temperature dropped.
FAQs
Where is a thermostat commonly found?
In heating and cooling systems, ovens, refrigerators, and more.
How does a thermostat maintain room temperature?
By activating or deactivating heating or cooling systems based on set points.
Do both devices control temperature?
Yes, both simmerstat and thermostat regulate temperature in their respective applications.
Do all electric stoves have simmerstats?
Most modern electric stoves utilize simmerstats for heat control.
Is simmerstat used in refrigerators?
No, simmerstats are mainly for cooking appliances, while thermostats can be in refrigerators.
Can a thermostat be programmed?
Modern thermostats, especially smart ones, can be programmable.
How does a simmerstat work?
It cycles power on and off to maintain the set heat in cooking appliances.
Is simmerstat a modern invention?
It's been around for some time, primarily in electric stoves.
Is it easy to replace a thermostat?
While basic replacements can be straightforward, it's best to consult a professional for advanced or smart thermostats.
Do simmerstats show exact temperatures?
Typically, they have numbered settings without direct temperature references.
Can I control a thermostat remotely?
Many modern thermostats offer remote control, especially smart ones.
Are thermostats energy efficient?
Programmable and smart thermostats can aid in energy efficiency by optimizing heating and cooling.
Can I use a simmerstat in an oven?
Ovens typically use thermostats; simmerstats are more common for stovetops.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
