A weather station is an all-in-one device that measures and displays meteorological variables using various measuring instruments. Classically, a weather station consists of at least one Thermometer for temperature measurement, oneBarometer for measuring the air pressure and oneHygrometer for the measurement of air humidity.
How is the weather like today or how it will be like tomorrow or in the next few days? With TFA weather stations you can find out the answers yourself! Would you like to find out more about weather stations? We introduce you to the types of weather stations available. We also explain how a weather station works and how to install and set up the device correctly.
Would you like to buy a TFA weather station? Go to our Online retailers section to find out where you can buy it.
All models of: Weather stations
What types of weather stations are there?
When you purchase a weather station, you can choose between different types that have different features and functions:
- Wireless weather stations
- Wi-Fi weather stations
- Satellite-based weather stations
- Analogue weather stations
- Digital weather stations
Wireless weather stations
The wireless weather stations consists of
- a base station and
- at least one transmitter
Base station of the wireless weather station
The base station, also called main station, measures indoor data such as air pressure, temperature, and humidity with integrated electronic sensors. The weather forecast is shown with a symbol on the display. The calculation by the device is based on the changes in air pressure measured by the integrated electronic barometer. Depending on the model, it also shows the air pressure values, and you can observe the time course on a bar chart.
Outdoor values are determined by wireless transmitters that are set up outdoors. The data transmission from the outdoor transmitter to the main station is done by radio. The measured values of the transmitters are shown on the display of the main station.
Digital devices often offer additional information and functions: The storage of maximum and minimum values, trend indication and the setting of alarms, for example for frost. An integrated radio-controlled clock provides a highly accurate time on the display, often with display of date, weekday and a wake-up alarm.
Wireless transmitter
There are different types of wireless transmitters. In the basic model, the radio transmitter is equipped with a temperature sensor for measuring the outside temperature, often in combination with a humidity sensor. Many wireless weather stations can be connected to several transmitters. This function can then be used to monitor the temperature and humidity in other rooms in addition to the installation location. Some models are supplied with several transmitters.
Professional or complete weather stations also have a wind transmitter for measuring wind speed and wind direction, and a rain gauge to determine precipitation quantities.
Advantages and disadvantages of the wireless weather station
Advantages | Disadvantages | |
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unlike analogue stations |
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unlike satellite-based stations |
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TFA wireless weather stations
Wireless weather station SEASON
Item number: 35.1150
+ 360° VIEW
Wireless weather station DIVA PLUS
Item number: 35.1078
Wireless weather station METEO SENS
Item number: 35.1139
+ 360° VIEW
Wireless weather stations
Wi-Fi weather stations
Would you like to receive accurate and up-to-date information on weather conditions from professional meteorologists in addition to your own local measurements? And would you like to be able to access the data easily via your smartphone or tablet while on the move? Then a Wi-Fi weather station is the right weather station for you.
The Wi-Fi weather stations consist of
- a base station and
- usually one or more transmitters and
- an app.
Base station of the Wi-Fi weather station
The base station clearly shows a lot of data about the current and future weather situation and the indoor climate on the high-resolution colour LCD display. If the base station is connected to the Internet, this information is supplemented by current weather data from an online weather service.
Wi-Fi weather station: Transmitter and indoor sensors
The outdoor transmitters measure temperature, humidity and wind, depending on the model. The data is transmitted by the wireless outdoor sensor to the base station. The sensors integrated in the base station measure the temperature and humidity in the room and – depending on the model – the barometric pressure.
App for the Wi-Fi weather station
With the app you can easily receive the data from your weather station on your smartphone or tablet. The weather and indoor climate information is clearly presented in the app. The app gives you mobile access from your Apple or Android device to the measured values of the weather station and informs you by push notification if the alarm limits are reached.
Advantages and disadvantages of weather stations with activated internet connection
Advantages | Disadvantages | |
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unlike wireless weather stations |
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TFA Wi-Fi weather stations
From the beginning of 2021 the following Wi-Fi weather stations will be available from TFA:
Wireless weather station with Wifi VIEW METEO
Item number: 35.8000
+ 360° VIEW
Wireless weather station with Wi-fi VIEW BREEZE
Item number: 35.8001
+ 360° VIEW
Projection alarm clock with Wifi VIEW SHOW
Item number: 35.8002
+ 360° VIEW
Wi-Fi weather stations
Satellite-based weather stations from TFA
More accurate forecasts over several days are provided by satellite-based weather stations with the WEATHERDirect technology. Like wireless weather stations, there is a base station and a transmitter for outdoor use.
Here the data comes from professional meteorologists who can take all weather-determining interrelationships into account. The weather data is transmitted to the device several times a day by satellite via a special radio network that only works in Germany. The reception of the data is free of charge.
Advantages and disadvantages of satellite-based weather stations
Advantages | Disadvantages | |
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unlike wireless weather stations |
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unlike Wi-Fi weather stations |
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Satellite-based weather stations from TFA
Satellite-based wireless weather station NOVA
Item number: 35.5019
Satellite-based wireless weather station with weather warning TEMPESTA 300
Item number: 35.5050
Satellite-based wireless weather station with color sharp display NIMBUS
Item number: 35.5060
WETTERdirekt
Analogue weather stations
An analogue weather stations usually contains the following components in one device:
- Thermometer
- Barometer
- Hygrometer
The weather forecast must be based on the change in air pressure itself.
TFA Dostmann’s classic weather stations with analogue mode of operation are manufactured in-house, at our TFA factory in Wertheim. The so-called aneroid barometer measures the air pressure. The accuracy of the TFA’s patented Domatic movement is +/- 3 hPa. The current measured value must be marked with a reference pointer to be able to read off changes to later measurements. For barometric pressure measurement, it doesn’t matter if the barometer is located indoors or outdoors.
Advantages and disadvantages of analogue weather stations
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Analogue weather stations of TFA
Analogue weather station made of oak
Item number: 20.1091
Analogue weather station for Indoor and outdoor use
Item number: 20.2027
+ VARIATIONS
Analogue weather station SPUTNIK
Item number: 20.2047
+ VARIATIONS+ 360° VIEW
Analogue weather stations
Digital weather stations
The digital weather stations ((without radio transmitter) only measures the indoor temperature and humidity with electronic sensors. A symbol indicates the weather forecast. Whether sun, clouds or raindrops are displayed, the simple digital weather stations usually calculated based on changes in humidity.
How does a weather station work?
“There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes”, says the proverb. In order to choose the right of clothing for the weather, it would help if you could check the weather report on the radio or TV, or even better, on your own weather station.
What functions does a weather station have?
The weather station combines the main meteorological instruments thermometer, barometer and hygrometer. It provides information about the current weather conditions, depending on the model indoor and/or outdoor, and enables future weather forecasts. Digital devices often provide additional information such as the time, date, sunrise and sunset or allow alarms to be triggered, e.g. in case of risk of frost or with an integrated alarm clock.
Since weather stations have many different functions and take different measured values into account, it is worthwhile to make a detailed comparison before deciding on what to buy.
Weather station collects weather data
A weather station has an integrated thermometer, that measures the temperature in degrees Celsius. For analogue weather stations, TFA uses mostly bimetallic thermometers and a pointer indicates the temperature. Only the classic, curved Sheraton models incorporate capillary thermometers.
The hygrometer, measures to what percentage the air is saturated with humidity. This value is “relative” because the air can absorb different amounts of moisture depending on the temperature. The analogue hygrometers from TFA Dostmann are available as bimetallic and synthetic hair hygrometers
Weather stations with wireless transmitter
Wireless weather stations include at least one outdoor sensor. The wireless transmitter is equipped with a temperature sensor to measure the outside temperature and, depending on the model, also with a humidity sensor. The outdoor sensor transmits the weather information to the base station.
Wireless weather station QUADRO
Item number: 35.1098
+ VARIATIONS
Wireless weather station with 'color sharp' colour change display SPHERE
Item number: 35.1148
Wireless thermo-hygrometer with 3 transmitters KLIMA@HOME
Item number: 30.3060
+ 360° VIEW
Weather station with wind sensor and rain gauge
Do you also want to measure wind or the amount of rainfall? Depending on the model, professional wireless weather stations measure additional weather data such as wind speed, rainfall and wind direction. This is helpful for (hobby) meteorologists who would like to make extensive weather observations and weather recordings.
Wireless weather station with anemometer SPRING BREEZE
Item number: 35.1140
+ 360° VIEW
Wireless weather station with wind and rain gauge STRATOS
Item number: 35.1077
Wireless Weather Station with Wind Meter and Rain Gauge METEOTIME DUO
Item number: 35.1100
Weather station with app
Make your home smarter with a weather station with app. In addition to the Wi-Fi weather station, the weather station set WEATHERHUB displays all weather information on the smartphone via an app. This allows you to check all climate data around the house even when you are on the move. The Weatherhub system has been tested by the Selbsermacherblog. In the test you will learn a lot of information about the station. You can also read more about the WEATHERHUB test there.
The gateway of the WEATHERHUB weather station is connected to the Internet via LAN cable. With the Wi-Fi weather station, the transmission of weather and indoor climate data works via the wireless network. Retrieve your data from anywhere via app and turn your flat or house into a smart home.
Weather station with moon phase
Some models of TFA Dostmann show the moon phases. Do you do gardening after the moon? Then these data are helpful. But information about the moon phases is also relevant for home or beauty care.
Wireless weather station SEASON
Item number: 35.1150
+ 360° VIEW
Wireless weather station MULTY
Item number: 35.1134
Wireless weather station ELEMENTS
Item number: 35.1158
+ VARIATIONS
Weather station with colour display
Weather stations with colour displays are becoming more and more popular and technically sophisticated. Have the weather data displayed with coloured details in your favourite colour. The display of the devices offers a better visibility due to the permanent illumination, especially in bad light conditions. The COLOR SHARP display technology is particularly rich in contrast and colour. You can choose between an automatic colour change or a fixed colour to suit your individual needs.
The “Colour Sharp” display shows colours with 600 shades and can be set in three different brightness levels. If you like this technology, just look for this symbol on the device before making a purchase:
This innovative technology makes reading the weather forecast a true colour experience.
Wireless weather station with colour display SPRING
Item number: 35.1129
+ 360° VIEW
Wireless weather station with 'color sharp' colour change display SPHERE
Item number: 35.1148
Wireless weather station with colour display SUN
Item number: 35.1133
+ VARIATIONS
Weather stations with weather boy or weather girl
Poodle cap, umbrella or swimming trunks? At the following stations, weather boy or girl will show you the right clothing recommendation for the current outside temperature. The value required for this is determined on site using their own wireless transmitter.
Wireless weather station WEATHER BOY
Item number: 35.1159
+ VARIATIONS
Wireless weather station with weather boy WEATHER BOY
Item number: 35.1084
Weather forecasts of the weather station
Weather stations allow weather forecasting. For digital and wireless weather stations, this is produced by the station itself based on changes in air pressure. For satellite-based models, the forecast is calculated by professional meteorologists based on all available weather data and it is transmitted via a satellite-based radio network. With analogue weather stations, you can determine the future weather trend yourself based on the measured air pressure values over time.
The barometer is the instrument responsible for the weather forecast. It measures the air pressure in hecto-Pascals (hPa). The air pressure corresponds to the weight of the surrounding layers of air and it depends on the weather conditions and the altitude. At higher altitudes, it is lower; starting from the sea level, it decreases by 1 hPa every 8 meters. For this reason, a barometer must always be adjusted to the reference air pressure at your location first, and this information can be obtained by checking your local weather service provider.
The different weight of cold and warm air currents causes a change in air pressure. Observing the air pressure fluctuations makes it possible to forecast the weather.
A slight increase in air pressure will usually result in nice weather, whilst rapid increase usually means good weather for a short time. In comparison, a slight drop in air pressure is often followed by a bad weather front, whilst a sudden drop indicates thunderstorms and storms.
Weather station: weather forecast by barometric pressure
Observing the humidity outside also gives you information about the weather development. Usually an increase in humidity results in worse weather, whilst decreasing humidity usually means better weather.
Using weather stations indoors
If your weather station is used indoors, you can monitor the indoor temperature and humidity and thus the indoor climate. The barometer can still be used to monitor the weather, as the air pressure is the same inside and outside.
Whether we feel well and comfortable at home depends to a great extent on the quality of the indoor air. Too humid indoor air (> 65%) promotes the formation of mould. But an overly dry indoor climate can be damaging to your health, especially the skin and the respiratory system.
If you use your weather station inside your house and regulate the temperature and humidity inside rooms by targeted heating and ventilation, you will create a pleasant and healthy living environment and can even save on heating costs.
Where is the weather station best placed?
If your analogue weather station is suitable for outdoor use, choose a shady place protected from the rain. To measure the outdoor temperature correctly, avoid direct sunlight.
This also applies when choosing a location for your outdoor sensor for wireless weather stations, which you use to measure the temperature and possibly humidity of the outdoor air. Ensure stable radio transmission to the indoor base unit.
The ideal location for indoor weather stations should be in a well ventilated area. Avoid the vicinity to heat sources such as stoves or radiators. Direct sunlight should also be avoided here.
Frequently asked questions about weather stations
What is a weather station?
A weather station is an all-in-one device that measures and displays meteorological values using various measuring instruments. What a weather station classically consists of at least you can discover here.
What are the best weather stations?
There are weather stations in different designs and functions. Discover what types of weather stations are available and then decide on the right for you.
What belongs in a wireless weather station?
A weather station consists of a base station and one or more transmitters that can be used outdoors or indoors. Depending on type of weather station, these also have other accessories, such as a rain gauge.
What types of weather stations are available?
When you buy a weather station, you can choose between different types that have different features and functions. Find out what types of weather stations are available.
Where to buy weather stations at a good price?
Discover all weather stations from TFA Dostmann and find the right online retailer.
How does a weather station work?
The weather station combines the most important meteorological instruments thermometer, barometer and hygrometer. It provides information about the current weather or climate conditions, depending on the model inside and/or outside, and allows forecasts of the weather in the future. Read how exactly a weather station works.
Which weather station with outdoor sensor?
Wireless weather stations include at least one outdoor sensor. The wireless transmitter is equipped with a temperature sensor to measure the outside temperature and, depending on the model, also with a humidity sensor. Discover our weather stations with outdoor transmitter.
Which weather station with rain gauge?
Depending on the model, professional wireless weather stations measure additional weather data such as wind speed, rainfall and wind direction. For (hobby) meteorologists who like to make extensive weather observations and weather recordings, weather stations with rain gauges are helpful.