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How to Set Up a Rain Meter

A rain meter, or rain gauge, is a simple device that you can use to record and track the amount of precipitation received in a specific location. A typical rain gauge will consist of two parts -- a holder and a plastic or glass graduated tube. Each day at a specific time the tube is lifted out of the holder, the water level of the tube recorded, the water discarded, and the tube replaced. There are a few important steps to follow if you want to get accurate readings.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Level
Rain gauge

Instructions

- 1
  Determine a location for your rain meter that is away from any overhanging objects, or other objects that will augment or diminish the flow of rain to the meter. A good rule of thumb is to locate the rain meter twice as far from an object as the height of the object. For example, locate the meter 20 feet away from a 10-foot-tall tree.
- 2
  Place the holder against the object you're mounting it to -- such as a fence post. Place a level against the side of the holder to ensure it's exactly vertical. Screw the holder into the object with the included screws.
- 3
  Insert the tube into the holder.

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