Which is the best place to put a thermometer outside?

For better accuracy, outdoor thermometers need to be correctly positioned. Factors such as height and weather elements like temperature and rain can affect how your thermometer reads. Placing it in the open where it can be rained on or directly to the sunlight can result in false readings. That is why it is important to know the best place to put an outdoor thermometer.

Before we look at the best place to place outdoor thermometers, it is important to understand how these instruments work. The working of a thermometer is defined by the rising and falling of the liquid inside it. When exposed to the atmosphere, a thermodynamic equilibrium will be achieved between the surrounding air temperature and that of the thermometer. The liquid expands when its temperature rises and contracts when they fall.

Guidelines for Correct Positioning of Your Outdoor Thermometer

• Place in a covered area- Outdoor thermometers should be placed in an area where they are protected from weather elements. Snow, hail, rain can fall on your unprotected thermometer, making it unreliable. You can consider an outdoor thermometer housing to protect your instrument against such elements.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight- With direct sunlight hitting on your thermometer, the temperature reading will always be higher than it actually is. For accuracy, you shouldn’t place an outdoor thermometer where it is affected by direct sunlight.
• Place it where there is adequate airflow- An outside thermometer works well where there is adequate airflow. If the airflow is restricted it can create a false reflection of the actual outside temperatures at the time.

Places that absorb and release heat can affect the temperature readings on your instrument. Avoid placing it on the walls of a house or next to concrete or asphalt pavements. To avoid interference from ground temperature, you should keep your thermometer at least 5 feet from the ground.

It is recommended to calibrate your outdoor thermometer monthly to avoid inaccurate readings. Here are steps on how to adjust your outdoor thermometer:

• Mix ice cubes and cold water in a glass and give it about 3 minutes.
• Place your thermometer in the glass without letting it touch the glass.
• Avoid hands interference with the glass as this may affect the readings.
• The temperature should read 32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees centigrade.

With this guide, I believe you now know where to place an outdoor weather sensor. If you are considering buying a thermometer, there are several top brands where you can find a high precision outdoor thermometer or a weather station combo that can read temperatures accurately.