Hydrometer Temperature Correction Calculator

Correct a hydrometer specific gravity reading for temperature deviation from the calibration point (60°F/15.6°C).

Hydrometer Reading

The number shown on your hydrometer (typically 0.990–1.150)

Temperature of the liquid sample when you took the reading

Check your hydrometer label — 60°F is the most common

Enter a reading and temperature to get your corrected SG

Quick Reference — Common Corrections (cal. 60°F)

Temp (°F) Temp (°C) Add to reading
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Summary

Correct a hydrometer specific gravity reading for temperature deviation from the calibration point (60°F/15.6°C).

How it works

  1. Enter the specific gravity reading shown on your hydrometer.
  2. Enter the actual temperature of the liquid sample in °F or °C.
  3. Select the calibration temperature your hydrometer was built for (default 60°F).
  4. The calculator applies the standard polynomial correction formula.
  5. Read the corrected SG — this is the true specific gravity of your sample.

Use cases

  • Correcting wort SG readings taken while the wort is still hot after the boil.
  • Measuring must gravity accurately during a warm fermentation.
  • Verifying final gravity when chilling is not yet complete.
  • Getting precise readings from a hydrometer calibrated at 20°C (68°F) instead of 60°F.
  • Cross-checking refractometer readings against hydrometer data at varying temperatures.
  • Calculating accurate alcohol by volume (ABV) using corrected OG and FG values.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-07-01 · Reviewed by Nham Vu