How to set up your home weather station

To get useful and accurate readings from your weather station the set up and positioning of the wireless sensors is vital.

Most models now feature wireless sensors with ranges of 100m and the ability to pass through most building walls.

The siting of your weather station sensors will have more influence on the data accuracy than the quality of the sensors.

Temperature sensor placement

We measure the air temperature in the shade, so it's important the sensor is not exposed to radiated heat. The temperature sensor should be fixed at a height of 4-6ft above the ground or roof top where it is sited.

It should not be exposed to direct sunlight at any of day. Equally it shouldn't be blocked from the flow of air and should be in a ventilated position. Make sure it is away from surfaces that may radiate heat such as roofs and pavements.

Some temperature sensors come with a radiation shield and the option to upgrade it to a larger one.

If your weather station has a single sensor module for all of the readings then you will have to compromise on the positioning of the module.

Humidity sensor placement

Often the humidity sensor will be combined with the other sensors in a single module. This can limit your optimal placement options. Humidity readings can be affected by near by bodies of water and plants. Ideally position your humidity sensor 50ft away from water and plants in a position where air is flowing.

Anemometer placement

To pick up accurate wind readings the module will need to be in a relatively high and exposed area e.g. your garden shed, garage or house roof.

The anemometer should be sited at 10 meters (33 feet) above the ground. Roof tops are ideal, position it 7ft higher than surrounding trees and buildings.

Rain gauge placement

The rain gauge should be sited with at least 5ft clearance to the nearest obstruction e.g. wall. It should be exposed to rain regardless of the wind direction. Make sure nearby walls do not block the rain in any way.

Ease of access

Bear in mind when positioning the sensors that you may need to have access to replace the batteries or check the sensors. If the sensors are solar powered then this will be less of an issue.

PC and Internet connection

Some weather stations offer connection via USB to your PC. To record the data in your PC or upload to wunderground.com you must keep your PC on 24 hours a day.

If your weather station is WiFi then you can upload to the internet directly with out connecting to your PC. You can still view the data on your PC or smart phone using the wunderground.com website.