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Offset (temperature offset)
The calibration value entered into a PID to correct for the difference between the sensor reading (usually in the boiler) and actual water temperature at the group.
Category: Boilers & Heating
The difference between the boiler set temperature and the actual water temperature at the group head. Most PID-controlled machines allow you to set an offset value that compensates for the loss.
Why it matters — Your "set" temperature isn't what hits the puck. An offset of 2–4 °C is common — meaning a 94 °C target at the puck requires a 96–98 °C boiler set point. The offset is unique to each machine and changes slightly with ambient conditions.
Good to know
- Some manufacturers calibrate the offset at the factory so the display matches group temperature; others leave it raw. Read the manual.
- A Scace device or shot thermometer is the way to measure the offset for your specific machine if you want to calibrate precisely.