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How to Fix a Barometer Needle

For the weather hobbyist, a simple barometer is one of the most important tools for understanding what the atmosphere is doing. Rising pressure typically means improving weather, while falling pressure can indicate storminess. Several types of barometers are available on the market. The aneroid barometer resembles a wall clock with a needle indicating the atmospheric pressure. Should this needle become bent or broken, repairing it is a simple matter.

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the glass or plastic cover of the barometer.
- 2
  Take note of the needle's orientation before unscrewing or pulling off the damaged needle. Be gentle with the instrument, as you don't want to cause any further damage.
- 3
  Assess the damage. If the needle is merely bent, then use finger pressure and straighten it. Mend a broken needle with a small piece of clear tape. Do not use too much tape so that the needle's weight interferes with the barometer's normal functioning.
- 4
  Replace the needle carefully in its original position. Usually, the hole in the needle will be hexagonally shaped. This guides the needle into its set position.
- 5
  Replace the cover of the barometer.

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