AcuRite 00617HDSBA2 Pool Thermometer Review

A Quick Look at the AcuRite 00617HDSBA2

The AcuRite 00617HDSBA2 is a wireless thermometer designed for pools, hot tubs, and spas. It comes with a floating sensor that sits directly in the water and a digital indoor display that shows real-time readings. Known for dependable weather tools, AcuRite keeps things simple and practical with this model.

You get everything you need right out of the box—no app downloads or complicated installations. The floating sensor stays on the water’s surface while the display sits indoors, giving you water temperatures without stepping outside.

What Makes It Different

• Wireless range: The device offers up to 100 feet of wireless range. That’s enough for most backyards, though walls and metal surfaces may slightly reduce the distance. It uses its own frequency, so it won’t interfere with your Wi-Fi or electronics.
• Dual temperature monitoring: The display shows both pool temperature and indoor temperature at the same time. This makes it easy to keep an eye on both environments, especially if you want to compare conditions.
• Simple display screen: The LCD screen is easy to read, showing temperatures in either Fahrenheit or Celsius. It also alerts you to low batteries or a weak signal. The screen layout is clean with large digits.
• Floating sensor build: The sensor floats upright in the water and is sealed to keep out moisture. It’s built to handle chlorine, saltwater, and exposure to sunlight.
• Accuracy level: The readings are accurate within ±1°F or 0.5°C. Most users find it consistent even after weeks or months of use.

Setting It Up Is Pretty Simple

You won’t need any special tools or apps to get this thermometer working. Everything you need is in the box, and setup takes just a few minutes.

Steps to set it up:

• Insert AA batteries into the floating sensor and the indoor display unit.
• Place the indoor unit on a shelf or mount it on a wall.
• Drop the floating sensor into your pool, hot tub, or spa.
• Let the two devices sync up. They usually connect automatically.

Once connected, the sensor begins sending updates to the indoor screen every 60 to 90 seconds. There’s no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth needed, which makes this unit ideal for anyone who prefers a basic, no-fuss experience.

How It Performs Over Time

• Refresh rate: The thermometer updates frequently, which is helpful if your water temperature changes throughout the day. It responds quickly to temperature drops at night or spikes during sunny afternoons.
• Battery life: Most users report several months of use from a fresh set of AA batteries. The device doesn’t drain power quickly.
• Connection stability: Even after months of use, the signal remains stable unless batteries are removed or replaced. If that happens, a quick resync is all it takes to get things running again.
• Long-term accuracy: Over time, the sensor remains accurate without recalibration. This is something cheaper models tend to struggle with, especially in outdoor conditions.

Build Quality That Holds Up

• Sensor durability: The floating sensor is built with UV-resistant material that prevents yellowing and cracking. It holds up well in both chlorinated and saltwater environments.
• Display visibility: The indoor display isn’t backlit, so it’s best viewed in daytime or well-lit rooms. The digits are large and easy to see from a distance.
• Mounting options: The back of the display unit has slots for wall mounting, but you can also set it on any flat surface indoors.

This unit is clearly made for long-term use. You won’t have to worry about it breaking down after one season, which adds to its overall value.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

• What we like: It has a strong wireless signal, solid temperature accuracy, and doesn’t require Wi-Fi or apps. You get indoor and outdoor readings together on one screen. It’s also durable enough to withstand pool chemicals and weather.
• What we don’t like: There’s no app support, so you can’t check readings from your phone. The display can be tough to read in the dark, and sometimes you’ll need to re-pair the sensor after a battery change.

These are minor drawbacks when compared to the convenience and reliability the thermometer offers. Most users find the positives far outweigh the small inconveniences.

Who Will Get the Most Out of It

• Ideal for: Homeowners with pools, spas, or hot tubs who want a simple way to check water temperature without stepping outside. It’s also great for parents monitoring safe swim temps for kids.
• Also good for: Property managers or vacation rental owners who want a reliable tool that doesn’t require much attention.

If you’re not looking for smart features or phone integration, and just want something that works well every day, this thermometer is a strong fit.

Is It a Good Deal?

• Price range: It’s considered a mid-priced model in the wireless pool thermometer market. You’ll find cheaper options, but most don’t perform as well or last as long.
• What you’re paying for: You get a durable, accurate thermometer that holds up season after season. That’s better than spending less on something that fails after a month.
• Warranty and support: It comes with a one-year limited warranty from AcuRite. Most buyers who’ve dealt with their support team say the company is responsive and helpful.

Considering everything included—performance, durability, and ease of use—it’s a solid value for most pool or spa owners.

What People Are Saying Online

• Positive comments: Users like the quick setup, accurate readings, and clear display. It also holds up well after months in the pool.
• Common praise: Many note that it’s more accurate than their old analog thermometers. A few even compare it to higher-end models and find the AcuRite holds up well.
• Minor issues: A few users mention needing to re-sync the sensor after battery replacement. Others would have preferred a backlit display. However, these concerns are minimal and don’t affect overall satisfaction.

Conclusion

The AcuRite 00617HDSBA2 offers exactly what most pool and hot tub owners are looking for—accurate readings, hassle-free setup, and no unnecessary tech complications. It’s built to last, performs well, and gives you the information you need without stepping outside.

This thermometer is perfect for anyone who wants a solid, practical solution for keeping water temperatures in check. Whether you’re managing a home pool or just soaking in your hot tub, it’s a dependable tool that does the job right.

Key takeaway: If you’re looking for a simple, durable, and accurate way to monitor pool or spa temperatures, the AcuRite 00617HDSBA2 is a reliable pick that works well season after season.

FAQs

Does the AcuRite 00617HDSBA2 work in a hot tub?

Yes, the floating sensor is designed to work in pools, hot tubs, and spas. It holds up well in higher water temperatures.

Can you change the temperature display from Fahrenheit to Celsius?

Yes, you can easily switch between °F and °C on the display.

Does it float upright in the water?

Yes, the sensor is weighted to stay upright and balanced while floating in water. This ensures accurate readings.

Do I have to re-pair the sensor after replacing the batteries?

Sometimes you may need to re-sync the sensor and display unit after changing batteries, but the process is quick and easy.

Can this thermometer be used with multiple sensors?

No, this specific model is built to work with just one sensor. If you need multiple pool readings, you would need separate units.