Information On Weather Instruments Maintenance

To ensure that your home weather station sensors are transmitting accurate weather measurements, they must be properly maintained. Preventive sensor maintenance is an important aspect of that effort and each sensor should be physically examined on a regular basis, helping to head off future problems and protect your investment. Be sure to review and follow your weather station manufacturer's cleaning and maintenance recommendations. For example, do not assume that all moving parts need lubrication, find out for sure!

The following are general guidelines for the maintenance of weather sensors:

Temperature & Humidity Sensors - Remove any dirt and debris that has accumulated on the thermometer hygrometer solar radiation shield. During the winter, be sure to remove snow and ice as that will affect temperature and humidity readings.

Anemometers (wind sensor or wind gauge) - Annually inspect your anemometer, then clean and lubricate (if required) the bearings. Also verify the orientation of the wind vane to ensure accurate directional wind measurement readings. Throughout the rest of the year, make sure the anemometer rotates freely by observing it during light wind conditions. If it doesn't appear to be turning freely, stops abruptly or makes a grinding sound, a closer examination is in order as it's likely the anemometer needs cleaning. They can also be symptoms of bad bearings, so if the problem remains after cleaning, consult the manufacturer. Anemometers can sometimes ice up during winter weather events and you should take great care if you decide to remove it. Plastic is usually very brittle at low temps and can break relatively easy. As an option, you could wait until it melts away naturally or bring the sensor inside.

Rain Gages (rain sensor) - Avoid inaccurate rainfall readings by checking the rain collector (funnel) often for obstructions (dirt and debris). Birds have also been known to nest in them. Remove the rain collector and check underneath it as well, but do so cautiously as wasps, spiders, and other insects can set up housekeeping inside the base. Dust and debris can also affect the operation of a tipping bucket rain gauge. Clean the buckets and collector funnel gently using water and a mild liquid detergent, rinsing thoroughly.

Solar Radiation & Ultraviolet Light Sensors - Keeping the lens/cover free of dust, dirt, and debris is critical to ensuring accurate readings from these solar sensors. Examine agricultural weather station sensors on a weekly basis.