Comparison thermometers / Barometers

— Household. Household thermometers are designed for measuring ambient temperature under standard conditions. They can be multifunctional, serving for both indoor and outdoor measurements, including remote sensing. Some models can also measure parameters other than temperature (for more details, see "Measurements").

— For water. The most popular way to use this type of thermometer is to monitor the temperature of the water while bathing young children. In light of this, such devices are often made in the form of fish, animals, etc., have bright colors and can be used not only for their main purpose, but also as a toy for a baby.

— For the sauna. Sauna thermometers are specialized devices tailored for measuring air temperature in steam rooms. They possess the unique capability of functioning in high-temperature environments, with a minimum threshold of at least 120 °C. Additionally, these models frequently come equipped with moisture meters for comprehensive measurements (see "Measurements").

— For the soil. Thermometers designed to monitor soil temperature have devices that allow you to immerse the device in the ground. Such a device can be very useful in horticultural work — in particular, to determine the time when you can start planting.

— Probe (for food). Cooking thermometers are crafted for...monitoring food temperature during the cooking process. Their notable feature is the inclusion of a temperature probe — a slender rod with a sensor at the end, allowing immersion into the cooking product. This enables users to ascertain the internal temperature of the dish, aiding in gauging its readiness. While food probes prove valuable for various dishes, they are particularly beneficial for assessing the doneness of large meat cuts.

— For the oven. Oven thermometers are designed to measure temperatures in ovens, pizza ovens, and similar kitchen appliances. Constructed with heat-resistant materials, these thermometers are intended to be placed on a baking sheet or wire rack. Many oven thermometer designs feature a hook on the body, allowing them to be conveniently hung on a grate.

— Portable. Compact electronic devices, featuring a display, control keypad, and a protruding sensor, are employed for measuring temperature and humidity. These versatile thermometers find applications in both daily life and various industries, recording temperatures of air, non-aggressive gases, liquids, and more.

The type defines the general operating principle of the thermometer.

— Liquid. Traditional liquid thermometers operate based on thermal expansion. They consist of a linear scale with a narrow transparent tube containing colored liquid, where the height of the liquid column indicates the temperature. These thermometers are simple, compact, and do not require a power supply. They are suitable for both low and high temperatures, with average accuracy. The main drawback is the small size of the tube, making it challenging to read from a distance. Apart from the classic design, there are unique versions, such as sealed flasks with colored glass bubbles that float or sink based on the temperature.

— Electronic. Thermometers that receive information from electronic sensors and display it on the LCD display. This principle of operation allows you to create very advanced devices with high accuracy and an abundance of features, including additional. On the other hand, electronic models are quite expensive and require additional power supplies.

— Mechanical. Mechanical thermometers operate similarly to liquid ones, but instead of liquid expansion, they rely on the expansion of a metal spiral or tape. The round scale with an arrow, resembling a dial, doesn't offer significant practical advantages over liquid models, except for improved visibility of re...adings from a distance. However, mechanical thermometers allow for a more compact design and are well-suited for creating products with unique designs, especially in retro styles like old weather stations.

Types of measurements that can be made using a thermometer.

— Internal temperature. Measurements of indoor air temperature. Note that measurements of water and soil temperature in thermometers for the appropriate purpose (see above) are also considered internal.

— Outside temperature. Taking outdoor air temperature can be challenging due to the constant changes and various external factors like precipitation, wind, and dust. Using a thermometer designed specifically for outdoor conditions is crucial, as regular indoor thermometers may not withstand these elements. Some models come equipped with external sensors, including wireless options, to facilitate accurate outdoor temperature measurements.

— Humidity. Measuring relative air humidity is vital for assessing comfort and well-being, as it is a key factor alongside temperature. Dry air can make heat more tolerable, but both low and high humidity levels can be uncomfortable at room temperature. This function becomes crucial in maintaining a suitable microclimate, especially when there are small children in the house, as they require a specific and controlled environment for their well-being.

— Atmospheric pressure. Changes in atmospheric pressure not only affect how you feel, but also allow you to predict the weather with some degree of accuracy: for example, precipitation is us...ually associated with low pressure.

In some advanced models, other, more specific measurements may be provided — for example, an assessment of the level of carbon dioxide with a warning about the need for ventilation, or the calculation of the dew point (a complex indicator that also affects the comfort of staying indoors).

Total allowable measurement range. The minimum / maximum temperature that the thermometer is able to fix, as a rule, is also acceptable for using the device — with further cooling / heating, malfunctions are possible up to complete failure.

Low values of this parameter are crucial for outdoor dryer models. Additionally, the inherent "margin of safety" in measuring systems often results in finding sub-zero temperatures in purely indoor models. This feature can be practical, such as assessing conditions in an unheated room during winter.

Most contemporary household thermometers boast a maximum temperature range of 50 — 60 °C, sufficient for even relatively hot climates. However, there are less heat-resistant models with temperatures ranging from 30 — 40 °C. Thermometers designed for water applications have a lower maximum temperature, as it is not necessary for their intended use. Sauna thermometers typically exhibit the highest temperature resistance.

This function lies in the fact that the thermometer "evaluates" the surrounding conditions — how comfortable they are for a person — and displays the result on a scale. It can be implemented in different ways, depending on the purpose (see above).

So, in models for water, additional marks on the scale are used — “Cold”, “Hot”, “Optimal” (for bathing a child); it is much easier to assess the temperature of water on them than on a scale with degrees. In domestic electronic models (see "Type"), the comfort is often determined by a combination of temperature and humidity. And in models with the possibility of external measurements, the comfort temperature can mean the perceived temperature. The meaning of this indicator is that at high humidity, both heat and cold are felt more acutely — as if it is hotter or colder outside than it really is. Some thermometers are able to estimate what temperature will correspond to the sensations of a person who went outside; This allows you to dress for the weather.

— Batteries. Thermometers are powered by standard-sized replaceable cells, such as AA or button cells like CR2023 or LR44. This design enables them to operate independently of power outlets, requiring only fresh batteries, which can be easily replaced. While a drawback is the periodic need to purchase additional batteries, the low power consumption of thermometers ensures that even inexpensive batteries have a long lifespan. Additionally, some models offer versatility by supporting mains or solar power in addition to battery power.

— Network. Operating on a standard 230 V household outlet, this device benefits from a constant voltage, ensuring virtually unlimited operation without the need for battery changes or recharging. However, the reliance on a mains cable restricts mobility and usage possibilities, and for household thermometers, this option doesn't offer significant advantages over battery-powered alternatives. As a result, mains power is not widely adopted in this context.

— Solar battery. Powered by a photocell that generates energy from sunlight (or other bright light source), this thermometer theoretically achieves independence from both the grid and batteries. However, its effectiveness relies on light intensity; insufficient sunlight, like on cloudy days or during nighttime, can render the solar battery practically useless. To address this, backup power is necessary, often supplied by batteries. When specifications mention only a sola...r battery, it typically implies an integrated battery charged by the photocell, serving as backup power.

The main material used in the construction of the thermometer body.

— Plastic. Plastic, a cost-effective and highly practical material, offers versatility in shape and color. It is water-resistant, tolerant to temperature extremes, lightweight, and generally resilient enough for everyday use, even enduring falls and mishaps. This makes plastic suitable for a wide range of applications, from vibrant water thermometers for kids to discreetly designed classic devices. However, it's not ideal for saunas due to its sensitivity to high temperatures.

— Metal. Premium and designer household thermometers typically feature metal cases, though exceptions exist. Despite being more expensive than plastic, metal's primary practical advantage lies in its high strength, which is often unnecessary for thermometers. However, metal is chosen to enhance the device's appearance, giving it a solid and luxurious look.

— Wood. Similar to metal, wood is commonly used in designer household thermometers that prioritize both functionality and a stylish aesthetic. These devices often embrace a "retro" style, contrasting with the modern appeal of metal. Notably, wood finds optimal practical use in sauna thermometers, as it tolerates high temperatures without damage or emitting harmful substances.

— Glass. Glass is valued for its transparency but is hindered...by fragility. Modern thermometers rarely feature all-glass cases; instead, glass is often combined with overlays of metal, plastic, or wood, with exceptions existing. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. For instance, glass is advantageous in outdoor and soil liquid thermometers, allowing easy scale readings. In mechanical models, it contributes to an original appearance.