Weather installation is a process that asks for great due diligence. Every instrument you plan to use probably asks for a specific installation place. A rain gauge for example has to be installed away from trees, and so does a wind vane. A thermometer has to be well ventilated to gather correct data. Below we explore how you should collect the major weather conditions, to help you understand where you can best install your home weather station.

Rain Collection

Simple fact: You collect rain data using a rain gauge. But where should install a home rain gauge? Place it at least 5 ft. away from any building. There is a reason to explain this. Sometimes, rains fall with the help of wind; meaning that if there is a building to block the wind pushing rain towards your rain gauge, you will probably not correct any data. However, short obstructions like a post measuring 10 ft. high or lower may not have any impact on the results you collect.

Wind Direction and Speed

We measure wind speed using and anemometer. A wind vane or wind sock on the other hand tells the direction of the wind. You probably won’t need a windsock unless you have a small air strip in your backyard. For correct installation of wind data collection equipment, you will want to stay clear of buildings. If that is impossible, install your anemometer and wind vane on the roof; preferably 10 meters above the ground.

Collecting Temperature

Misplacing the thermometer sensor is a common error made by many home weather station owners. Some people place the sensor in direct contact to sunlight. Others confine it in a casing with no ventilation. According to scientists, none of the above should happen. Correct temperature data is only that collected under the shade. With that in mind, always ensure that your thermometer sensor stays clear of direct sunlight. Ensure the sensor receives plenty of ventilation. It should not be blocked from wind; which means you should place it at least 5 ft. above the grass or rooftop.

Air Pressure

With air pressure data collection, buy a digital barometer. It is easier to work with. However, not all digital barometers are created equal. A quality barometer should b electric powered so that it can collect air pressure in real time directly to the thermal board. A good electronic pressure sensor is also likely to remain accurate in times of storms and when gathering data about both cold and warm fronts.

Humidity

We measure humidity using a hygrometer. For a home weather station, mount your hygrometer close to your thermometer. This eases your work when you need to calculate more complex data like dew point. Note that you can also get a combined hygrometer/thermometer sensor. It is the best idea if you definitely need data related to both temperature and humidity.

Finally, install your home weather station on grass, several metals from buildings and objects that may skew your results.