How to Repair a Barometer

Test the barometer to be sure it is broken. If it is sticking, lightly tap the glass and be sure to read the barometer as if at sea level to ensure an accurate measurement. Barometers have a transporting screw located around the base or back. Using a screwdriver to loosen it while lightly tapping the glass will help adjust it. If it's still not working properly, repair is needed.

Rejoin the mercury. If the mercury becomes separated, it must be joined back together. Most come with a rubber tube that is pinched together to join the mercury. To test the tube in a mercury barometer for damage, tip it 50 degrees. If working correctly, you will hear a tap. If the tube is broken, first remove it from the barometer, separating the liquid and placing both into a container. If the barometer contained mercury, you must treat it as chemical waste. You can bring the tubes to a specialty shop to repair, or buy spare parts online to replace the tube.

Fix the barograph. Barographs typically use a nib with a wet ink bucket. One or two drops of ink into the bucket every two or three weeks ensures an even line. When the barograph doesn't print properly make sure the correct paper and ink are being used, such as those made specifically for a barograph. If the ink is blotchy, the paper and ink are not compatible. Be certain the nibs are placed evenly apart by carefully adjusting the gap between them. The further apart, the wider the line. If no line is showing up, the nibs may be dry or new. Take a small pin to place ink onto the paper, let the nib draw the line until there is no more ink and then place one more drop and the problem should be resolved.