As you are here, now I know that either you are interested in learning more about window thermometers or you may be looking forward to buy one. A window thermometer is just like a normal thermometer that provides the temperature of your surrounding, but only with a design particularly built for attaching to a window. It is a very useful device to know the outdoor and indoor temperatures at one glance. All you have to do is mount your window thermometer to the inside or outside of your windowpane.
Thermometer
Many individuals like to have a window thermometer for their greenhouse, but there are many who keep a window thermometer to know the accurate outdoor temperature at a quick glance.
Window thermometers come in numerous choices, with different design, technology and functions, which makes it quite difficult for a novice to choose the right unit. In fact many get confused and end up buying a device not so suitable for their need. To make it easier for you, I have made a list of some very important factors that you can consider while buying a window thermometer.
1. Technology
As mentioned above, window thermometers come in different shapes and sizes, which also include the technology. Generally, there are two types of window thermometers:
Analog
Analog thermometer is often referred to the liquid filled devices alone, but when various types of thermometers are compared according to design, this also includes the thermometers with dials and pointers. Analog window thermometer is the ultimate low-cost solution in case you are looking for the most affordable device.
However, with analog thermometer, you’ll be able to see notches of temperature on the gauge, but it never gives you an exact reading, which is the biggest obstacle with an analog window thermometer. It works well for those who don’t require the exact or accurate result.
Digital
A digital window thermometer on the other side consists of a display, in which you can virtually monitor the numerical reading of the temperature. This device will deliver you accurate and exact reading every time. Digital window thermometers are more stylish and convenient than the analog ones. They are also more expensive.
2. Features
When choosing a window thermometer, it’s very important to consider the functional aspects of the device. As different models come with a number of different functions depending on the technology and price. For example, an analog window thermometer can only be used to know the temperature of the surrounding. Some also shows humidity.
However, there are many advanced digital thermometers that not only display temperature of both outside and inside, but also provides other weather data such as dew point, humidity, minimum and maximum, time, rainfall, pressure, wind chill and even forecast. It is not always necessary to get a device that has maximum features, but you should go for the unit that best suits your requirements.
3. Installation
You must first decide where you would like to install the device. Usually window thermometers can either be mounted on the outside of the windowpane or inside. It depends on your preference. Most high-end units are designed for both outdoor and indoor. But some weather thermometers are only meant for indoor installation.
As the weather can be very harsh outside, the device must have some special features such as water -resistance or UV shield, in order to ensure the longevity and accuracy of the equipment. So you must purchase the device according to your choice of installation.
4. Mounting Option
Mounting is another very important factor that you must keep in mind. Usually window thermometers come with any of these four mounting features:
Electrostatic
Electrostatic cling window thermometer uses a static electricity to stick to the window. This type of thermometer is easy to install, as they don’t require any additional mounting tools. They can also be removed and reinstalled, making it easier to clean the window.
Suction Cup
Suction cup window thermometer comes with a technology that allows the device to adhere to sleek surfaces like window glass, by creating a partial vacuum. Just like electrostatic thermometer they are easy to install. Unfortunately this type of thermometer cannot be mounted on nonporous surfaces.
Bracket
Some window thermometers come with brackets for mounting. The brackets are generally stick like thin metal. You can easily hang the thermometer on the windowpane by using some mounting tools. This type of thermometer is not so easy to install as compared to the others. They are the most affordable ones.
Adhesive
Many window thermometers consist of specially designed adhesive strips that make the device adhere to the window glass. They are also easy to mount. One drawback of this type of thermometer is that it cannot be removed and reinstalled infinitely as the adhesive might perish due to residues like dust.
There are also many high-end thermometers that come with multiple mounting options, which you can consider for the long run.
5. Power
Power is one of the most important factors. Like any other electronic device, fluid-less thermometers also require a power source. You must decide according to your affordability and convenience.
· AC: AC powered window thermometers runs on direct current that is accessed via USB cable. These thermometers are usually wired, so installing them outdoors can be difficult.
· Battery: Most people prefer thermometers that run on batteries, as they are wireless and more convenient. However, replacement batteries will add extra lifetime expenses.
· Solar: For those who want an outdoor window thermometer, a device with built-in solar panel is an ideal choice. These thermometers are wireless, as well as you don’t have to spend money on buying batteries. But this type of thermometer is not suitable for cloudy areas or locations with frequent rains.
There are many units that have multiple powering options. If you are ready to spend some extra bucks, then they are the ultimate choice.
6. Accuracy and Update
Accuracy of the unit decides its functionality. By accuracy it means how exact is the reading provided by the device. As mentioned earlier, analog or dial thermometers cannot show the exact reading and it depends on your guesswork. For digital thermometer, they provide the exact reading. However, if you need high precision data for some professional work, the device must be able to provide the most accurate result and must be reliable.
Frequency of update is also very important. Depending on the technology and models, the thermometers can update in every 2 seconds to 30 seconds. It’s always recommended to go for the device that delivers most frequent updates.
7. Temperature Range and Display
Temperature range is referred to as the maximum and minimum temperature that the thermometer can measure. You must consider this factor particularly if you reside in a location with extreme weather. A good window thermometer has temperature range of -40°F to 120°F or more.
Display of the unit should also be considered as the device is meant for quick glance and convenience. With large LCD display or bold and colorful dial, it will be much more easier to view the reading from a distance.
8. Other Additional Features
Apart from the factors mentioned above, there are many other features that you might want in your device in case you are a weather enthusiast. Here are some additional features that you can look for:
USB or Internet
A device with USB or internet connection compatibility allows you to connect the unit to external devices like PC or laptop to transfer the data so that you can do further analysis or share your data with friends, Family or social networking sites.
Weather Resistance
Almost all outdoor window thermometers are water resistant. But apart from water, there are other weather conditions like extreme heat or freezing temperature. A weather-resistant unit can withstand even the harshest weather. Units with this feature can last longer than the standard ones. They are also more accurate.
Separate Sensors
There are many advanced digital window thermometers that consists of sensors other than temperature senor such as wind sensor, hygrometer, barometer, etc. If you are also interested to know other weather variables, then this type of unit is recommended.
Programmable Warnings
Some digital thermometers have programmable warnings that allow the user to set alarm manually for specific temperature or conditions. For example, if you have a thermometer with rain sensor, you can set the thermometer to warn you when rainfall is predicted.
9. Price and Warranty
Deciding your budget before going for the purchase is a wise idea as it will help you choose the best unit affordable in your budge range. A good window thermometer is available at the range of $4 to $30. The most expensive is not always the best. Choose according to your need.
All reputed window thermometer manufacturers offer some period of warranty with their units to ensure the safety of your investment. Depending on the model, price and technology, the warranty time can be 1 year to 3 years. It’s highly recommended to buy a unit with reasonable warranty period.
Conclusion
Window thermometers are very simple yet complicated devices. Although they are meant for delivering temperature, but they can very useful for professionals, outdoor workers, athletes, home makers and more. Choosing the right device might be a little tough, but once you know all the factors, it becomes quite easy for you. So spend sometime in deciding so that you don’t have to regret later. For more help you can also go through the reviews provided by other experienced buyers.