5 Best Wireless Rain Gauges for Gardeners

Last updated on April 25th, 2022 at 10:02 pm

Going outside every time it stops raining to check the rain gauge can be a pain. Meanwhile, I don’t want to wait until the rain event stops or weather conditions improve to see how much rain has accumulated. This started me on a search for the best wireless rain gauges.

I’ve owned a manual rain gauge for years installed on a fence post by the garden. Time after time, I would forget to empty promptly.

Wireless rain gauges have come a long way since their distant predecessors it’s hard to beat their convenience.

Don’t get me wrong, an official simple manual emptying funnel rain gauge that’s properly located is your best choice for accuracy. A rain gauge like the stratus precision rain gauge weather station.

What is a rain gauge and why do you need one?

A rain gauge is a device used to measure the amount of liquid precipitation over a set period.

Gardeners need rain gauges to help them track how much water their plants are getting so they can adjust their watering schedule accordingly.

There are many different types of rain gauges available on the market, but the best rain gauge offers both convenience and accuracy.

How to use your wireless rain gauge properly

Regardless of which type of wireless rain gauge you ultimately choose, some basic best practices will ensure you get the most accurate rainfall data possible.

First and foremost, your wireless rain gauge works best in an open area away from any trees, buildings, or other structures that could block the rain.

It’s also important to make sure that the sensor is level so that water will flow evenly into the gauge.

Finally, be sure to keep your rain gauge clean and free of debris—a build-up of dirt, spider webs, and leaves to ensure an accurate rain gauge.

Why do we recommend a digital wireless rain gauge for gardeners?

We are all busy people and the reality of emptying your rain gauge and keeping track of rainfall totals can be a hassle.

Digital wireless rain gauges take the guesswork out of watering your garden.

Some models can even transmit data to your smartphone or computer so you always know how much rain has fallen and when to water your plants.

The Ambient Weather WS-5000 is a great weather station, but it may be a little bit more than your budget will allow. These digital wireless rain gauges are a little bit more budget-friendly.

It may also be beneficial to consider a complete home weather station for your home to measure many data sets such as indoor temperature, outdoor temperature, wind speed and direction, hydrometer, and soil moisture just to name a few.

How to choose the Best Wireless Rain Gauge?

We will look at what factors to consider before you buy a rain gauge.

There are a few different types of wireless rain gauges on the market. Some use WiFi, others Bluetooth, and some even come with their base station that includes a full weather station.

The best rain gauge for you will depend on your needs and budget.

Keep these key points in mind when selecting.

Installation

Even the best rain gauges can give inaccurate readings if they are not installed properly.

These tips will help you get the most accurate readings from your rain gauge.

1. Install your rain gauge in an open area away from trees, buildings, or other obstacles that could block the rainfall.
2. Make sure the rain gauge is level. This is important for accurate measurements.
3. Ensure that the tipping bucket is clear of any debris that could impede rainfall from flowing into it.

I’ve written a blog post on picking the best location for installing a rain gauge.

Analog Rain Gauges

Analog rain gauges are the simplest type of rain gauge.

They consist of a glass container with markings that show the amount of rainfall.

The most common types of analog rain gauges are the graduated cylinder and the tipping bucket.

The Stratus Precision Analog Rain Gauge is a very accurate graduated cylinder rain gauge.

Digital rain gauges

Most digital rain gauge systems are constructed of tipping containers.

The gauge funnels water into small containers whose sides tip back and forth when water is weighed. This is generally down to 0.01 in.

A digital rain gauge transmits rainfall data to a console or other display device wirelessly.

Accuracy

The accuracy of the wireless rain gauge is affected by many factors such as obstructions, exposure to wind, the proximity of other objects, and the gauge’s location in the garden.

Best practices call for the rain gauge to be positioned in an open area as far away from trees, buildings, and other objects as possible.

Construction and Durability

Many factors play a role in durability but generally, the old saying you get what you pay for tends to be true.

A more expensive digital wireless rain gauge will likely be made with better materials and have longer battery life and overall lifespan.

Also, make sure to get a unit that comes with a warranty in case something does happen to it.

Measuring capacity

Generally, this is a metric that only comes into play for an analog rain gauge, such as the Stratus Precision Rain Gauge.

With a digital rain gauge, you’re just going to have a number that tells you how much it rained.

This can be helpful if you’re trying to keep track of your daily or weekly rainfall history, but it might not be as important to some gardeners.

A rainfall alert is also helpful to keep you abreast of rapid changes in conditions.

We have seen some big gully washers here in Texas and my wireless rain gauge captured it all.

Easy use

Digital Rain Meters are easier for a user to understand.

No need for the outside to measure them; they’re easily readable and maintainable.

Digital wireless rain gauges are an important tool for any gardener.

They take the guesswork out of watering your plants and help you maintain a healthy garden.

Maintenance

The best wireless rain gauges do require some maintenance.

You will need to clean the gauge and the funnel regularly to ensure that rainfall is accurately measured.

Keep in mind that these tips are general guidelines and you should consult your rain gauge‘s owner’s manual for specific instructions.

The best wireless rain gauges for gardeners

Final Thoughts

Rain gauges or weather stations are a simple and affordable tool for gardeners or amateur weather enthusiasts.

They help you maintain healthy plants, keep track of your daily or weekly rainfall totals, and can even alert you when it starts raining outside.

The best wireless rain gauges are easy to use and provide accurate readings without being obstructed.

They are also durable enough to last for years in the elements. Additionally, they have an alarm function so you know exactly when it’s been raining long enough to water your garden again.

Please feel free to leave any comments or feedback.