Build An Affordable Home Weather Station With 3 Simple Tools

BENNETT, Colo. (CBS4) - If you consider yourself a weather geek but don't think you have the right tools necessary to be a weather watcher, then think again!

Chances are that you have at least one or two of the three simple tools needed in your home right now. They are a thermometer, a rain gauge and a ruler.

Once you have your weather tools in hand it's important to place them in the right location to get an accurate reading.

CBS4 Weather Watcher Joy Jordan from Bennett is an expert at placing weather instruments.

"For thermometers make sure they are facing north," explains Jordan.

That is to ensure your thermometer isn't receiving direct sunlight that could make it read too warm. It's also best to place a thermometer about five feet off the ground in an area with good air flow around it.

"For the rain gauge they always recommend you put it in an area that's unobstructed," says Jordan.

That is so you don't get false readings in the gauge by rain or snow blowing off a nearby tree or roof. Rain gauges are typically mounted between 3 and 6 feet off the ground.

As you place your weather instruments around your property always think about accuracy, but also convenience. It can be a tough chore to trek through a cold rain or snow just to check your gauge.

If you're budget allows you can install an automated weather station that'll deliver the latest weather conditions right inside the comfort of your home.

"The thing I like about this is it's solar powered. It's pretty accurate and gives me a lot of good information that I post in the morning," said Jordan.

An automated weather station is not necessary to be a CBS4 Weather Watcher but they are pretty neat to own.