How to Buy a Hygrometer
A hygrometer is a weather instrument used to determine relative humidity. It may be electronic, or it may consist of two thermometers. One has a dry bulb and the other has a bulb that is kept wet by a linen wick in water. This wet bulb/dry bulb hygrometer is called a psychrometer and requires a special chart, usually mounted under or between the thermometers, that shows the relative humidity as a relationship between the temperature of the wet bulb and the dry bulb. As of September 2009, hygrometers ranged from $3.38 to $153 and could be found where weather instruments are sold, such as Amazon. .
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Instructions
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Look at the scale on the thermometers. If you are used to reading thermometers with the scale in degrees Celsius, buy a hygrometer with the scale in degrees Celsius. Conversely, if you are used to the Fahrenheit scale, buy a hygrometer with the scale in degrees Fahrenheit.
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Look at the chart below or between the thermometers. Be sure that the chart has large enough numbers and curves that you can actually use it.
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Look at the type of mounting the hygrometer requires. Should it be mounted on a pole? Can it be mounted on the side of your building in such a way that you can see it from inside? If these are considerations, be sure that the selected hygrometer can meet these needs.
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Make sure the hygrometer comes with understandable instructions. Even if you are familiar with hygrometers, be sure that the instructions for use and installation are clear and understandable. They may include restrictions or requirements you cannot meet.
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Understand the warranty for electronic hygrometers. Like all machines, the greater the complexity, the more likely the machine is to break. A good warranty may mean a more satisfactory overall experience should that happen.
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Tips & Warnings
Pick the type of hygrometer--electronic or wet bub/dry bulb--that seems easiest to use.
