Smart home

How to use and set up a Tempest Weather Station

By The IFTTT Team

September 20, 2024

How to use and set up a Tempest Weather Station
  • Setting up a Tempest Weather Station can be a game-changer for anyone interested in monitoring the weather right from their home. Whether you're a weather enthusiast, a gardener, or someone who just loves to stay informed, a home weather station provides real-time data and insights. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to set up your Tempest Weather Station efficiently. With precise weather data at your fingertips, you can make informed decisions about your day-to-day activities and stay ahead of any weather changes.

    Plus, Tempest integrates with IFTTT, meaning that you find all sorts of ways to level up your weather game by connecting your Tempest to over 1000 different apps and services. With simple setup involving just a few clicks, our free automation platform can help keep you notified of major weather events, plan your day or week, and even establish an automatic watering system for your yard! As an added bonus for IFTTT users, enjoy a 10% discount on your purchase of the Tempest Weather Station by using the code IFTTTWX.

    Having your own weather station not only satisfies personal curiosity but also contributes valuable data to larger meteorological networks. Let's get started on this exciting journey of becoming your own meteorologist!

    BTW you can join IFTTT for free today and connect Tempest with over 1000 other tools!

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    What you need to get started

    Before diving into the setup process, it's essential to gather all the necessary components and tools. Here's a checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

    • Tempest Weather Station unit
    • Mounting pole or bracket
    • Wi-Fi network
    • Smartphone or tablet
    • Tempest Weather app (available on iOS and Android)

    Having these items ready will make the setup process smooth and hassle-free. Additionally, you might find a ladder useful if you're mounting the station at a considerable height. A level could also come in handy to ensure your weather station is perfectly level, which is important for accurate data collection.

    It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the instruction manual before starting the setup. This will give you a better understanding of the components and the overall process. Ensuring you have a stable Wi-Fi connection in the area where you plan to install the station is another important step to consider.

    Unboxing Your Tempest Weather Station

    tempest weather station 2

    When you receive your Tempest Weather Station, unbox it carefully to avoid damaging any of the components. Inside the box, you should find:

    • The Tempest Weather Station unit
    • Mounting hardware
    • USB charging cable
    • Instruction manual

    Check to make sure all components are present and in good condition. Inspect each item for any visible damage that may have occurred during shipping. If anything appears to be missing or damaged, contact the manufacturer immediately for a replacement.

    Take some time to read through the instruction manual to get acquainted with each component and its function. This will make the setup process smoother and help you understand how to troubleshoot any issues that might arise. Properly organizing all the components before beginning the setup can save time and reduce frustration.

    Choosing the perfect location

    Selecting the right location for your Tempest Weather Station is crucial for accurate data collection. Ideally, the station should be placed in an open area, away from obstructions such as buildings, trees, and large structures. This ensures that the sensors can get an accurate read on various weather parameters like wind speed, temperature, and humidity.

    Choosing a location with minimal shade and good air circulation will help in capturing more accurate temperature and humidity readings. Avoid placing the station near artificial heat sources like exhaust vents or air conditioners, as these can skew the data.

    The recommended height for mounting your Tempest Weather Station is around 10 feet (3 meters) above the ground. This is why many users naturally mount their Tempest on their roof, but please mount with caution.

    Using a mounting pole

    If you're using a mounting pole, follow these steps:

    • Secure the mounting pole into the ground or attach it to a stable structure using brackets.
    • Attach the Tempest Weather Station unit to the top of the pole, ensuring it is level and securely fastened.
    • Double-check that the station is stable and not wobbling.

    Make sure the mounting pole is made of durable material that can withstand various weather conditions. Regularly check the stability of the pole, especially after extreme weather events, to ensure the station remains secure. Proper installation will help in maintaining the accuracy and longevity of your weather station.

    Using a bracket

    For those using a bracket:

    • Attach the bracket to a wall or another stable surface using screws.
    • Mount the Tempest Weather Station unit onto the bracket.
    • Ensure the unit is level and securely attached.

    Verify that the bracket is firmly attached and can support the weight of the weather station. Periodically inspect the bracket for signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary. A secure and level installation is key to obtaining accurate weather data.

    Setting up the Tempest Weather Station

    tempest weather station 1

    Charging the unit

    Before mounting your Tempest Weather Station, charge it fully. Use the provided USB charging cable to charge the unit. A fully charged battery ensures uninterrupted data transmission and optimal performance. Charging the unit overnight is recommended to ensure it has a full charge before installation.

    Installing the Tempest Weather App

    Download the Tempest Weather app from the App Store or Google Play Store. The app will guide you through the initial setup process and help you connect your weather station to your Wi-Fi network.

    The app will prompt you to create an account or log in if you already have one. Having an account allows you to access your weather data from any device, whether it be a phone or computer.

    Accessing data on the app

    Tempest app-weather

    With your Tempest Weather Station set up and calibrated, you can start monitoring weather data in real-time. The Tempest Weather app provides a user-friendly interface to view various metrics such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and rainfall. You can easily switch between different data views and even access historical data to analyze trends.

    The app also offers graphical representations of the data, making it easier to understand and interpret. You can customize the dashboard to display the most relevant information for your needs. Having access to real-time and historical data can be incredibly useful for planning outdoor activities, gardening, or simply staying informed.

    One of the significant advantages of the Tempest Weather app is the ability to customize alerts. You can set thresholds for different weather parameters and receive notifications when conditions meet or exceed those thresholds. IFTTT can also elevate this feature with additional triggers and actions that can be integrated with your Tempest station and over 1000 other apps and services.

    Remember, regular cleaning and calibration is key to extending the accuracy and lifespan of your Tempest device. If you need troubleshooting help or additional setup information, view the official Tempest support page here.

    Weathering the storm with IFTTT

    Charge Series (1)

    If you're looking to take your weather forecasting to the next level, consider leveraging the power of IFTTT. IFTTT, which stands for "If This, Then That," is our free automation service that allows you to connect over 1000 different apps and services to create custom workflows.

    With IFTTT, you can automate tasks such as turning on lights, activating sprinklers, sending out a robot mower, and much more. By integrating IFTTT with Tempest, you can streamline your weather routine, allowing you to focus on what matters most: keeping you and your loved ones safe and informed.

    Getting started with IFTTT is easy, join today!

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    Top Tempest Weather Applets with IFTTT

    Alert me it's freezing by text

    Receive a text alert when temperature drops below freezing. (32 deg F)

    Log Lightning to Google Sheet

    Log details about each lightning strike reported by your WeatherFlow Smart Weather Station to a Google spreadsheet.

    Delay my Rachio Sprinkler cycle when it rains.

    When rain is detected, delay your Rachio Sprinkler cycle by X day(s). Reduce water waste when it rains.

    These top picks are only the start of what is possible with IFTTT. To enable these Applets and millions more (yes, millions), try IFTTT for free today!