Prevent burnt thermometers on the Akorn

I was using a Maverick digital to monitor temps during a steak searing session (good eats!) - but it looks like the probe got seared as well.
Where I put the probe wire in the lid it is right up against the hot grate.


- How can I prevent investing in new probes every so often?

- Can I use an analog thermometer jammed in at grate level to monitor internal/grate level temps?
.....(*Now we're talking like four bucks if things go south and not $15-45 for replacement digital parts).


Thanks in advance.

- B916

ET-705, Its rated for 410* - I guess I put too much on it during the sear.

Hoping dead probes are not a trend the way the wire is up against the grate as it first comes in the lid. Maybe I'll run it thru some foil right there or something.