AIR - Device Observations Follow
If one or more sensors in the AIR device is not reporting data, please see the Troubleshooting Guide > Smart Weather Station Devices.
Questionable Data
There is often an explanation for readings that seem only a little off. Observations from nearby weather stations and other data sources may not match exactly. Weather stations can be sited differently and some areas subject to microclimate conditions. Instrumentation also vary between weather stations; different sensor manufacturers and styles of instruments have different accuracy spec.'s and limitations.
Microclimates are localized atmospheric conditions that differ from those in the surrounding area. For example, most airport weather stations read higher temperatures and lower humidity as they are sited over a tarmac surface where the material of the ground is better at radiating heat into the air above it. These microclimates can be created from soil, ground vegetation and trees, bodies of water, urban areas or terrain influences, etc.
Siting differences can result in different readings too. Some personal, home weather stations may be poorly sited or just experiencing the environment as it is around them. Moisture in wood decks, dryer vents, lack of proper radiation shields and direct sun exposure lead to skewed temperature readings.
If possible, try moving your AIR around and analyze the data - you might be surprised at the varying microclimates around you and how careful siting makes for accurate data.
Temperature
- Temperature is reading high: Typically, a high temperature reading is result of direct exposure to sunlight. Relocate the AIR unit to a location with full shade and away from any sources that could be radiating heat. See Siting & Installation for AIR. You can also use a radiation shield to house the AIR unit from exposure.
Relative Humidity
- RH is high: Typically caused by nearby sources of moisture. Check surrounding environment around your AIR device for any potential moisture sources, soaking wood, Try moving AIR to a drier location if the humidity remains high for long. See Siting & Installation for AIR.
Pressure
- Pressure is incorrect: Check the AIR’s "height above ground" setting in the app. This should be set as the height of the unit above the ground surface - not the elevation of your location above sea level. Open the app, go to Settings > Stations > choose your station > Manage Devices > select an AIR > edit the height above ground.
Lightning
- False positives: The lightning detector in the AIR senses the small electromagnetic pulse produced by lightning. Although it will reject most triggers from non-lightning sources, it may report false positives. Possible sources of EMI (electromagnetic interference): piezo lighters, electric drill, electric motors, ignition system (cars, boilers, furnaces), appliances, fluorescent lights, TVs, light switches, high voltage wires, solenoids, motion detectors, speakers. Be sure to locate the AIR away from such sources. Re-locate your AIR if you are receiving false positives from electromagnetic interference. If you cannot identify any obvious potential interference or you are limited on siting options, subtle changes in the positioning of AIR can make a difference. Try rotating your AIR so the logo or vent slits face another direction.
If you are unable to find a location on your property that is free from electromagnetic noise, you can turn off the lightning alerts in the app: settings > alerts > tap on lightning alerts to disable.
You can also turn off the lightning sensor altogether (make sure you have the most recent app update installed): settings > stations > [select your station] > manage devices > [select your AIR device] > advanced > disable lightning.
While disabling the lightning sensor is not ideal, it's a good solution for those who simply can't avoid frequent false positives.
- Not detecting lightning: The lightning detector is designed to detect storm activity and approximate distance; it is not capable of detecting every lightning strike. Make sure your AIR is mounted vertically/upright and not shielded by a metal object from any direction. The lightning detection antenna inside the AIR is oriented in such a way to optimize pick up of lightning activity.
If you're not receiving any lightning observations, check the app to make sure the lightning sensor is enabled: go to settings > stations > choose your station > manage devices > AIR > advanced > "Disable Lightning" should be unchecked.
Comments
0 comments
Article is closed for comments.