There are various types of wind speed meters available, from simple handheld devices with an LCD screen to multifunctional weather systems that also show temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, and rainfall.
Many modern anemometers have wireless or Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smart devices. This allows the data to be displayed in different units of measurements and to be logged and stored for analysis.
Here are the best wind speed meters available today.
Q: How Is Wind Speed Measured?
Most anemometers have either cups or fan blades that rotate on a central axis. The meter then converts this motion to give a speed measurement.
Although the sensor does require three AAA batteries, these will power the unit for up to two years of constant use. The display unit has a six-inch, color screen that fits comfortably in the hand or can be stood upright for tabletop use. It accurately displays the current wind speed, average wind speed, and peak wind speed readings, which are updated every 18 seconds.
In addition, the unit provides information on indoor and outdoor temperatures, humidity levels, wind chill, barometric pressure, and moon phases. So if you are looking for a comprehensive wind speed meter with plenty of functionality, the AcuRite Notos 3-in-1 Weather Station is a great choice.
The meter incorporates Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smart devices via the free intelligent anemometer app. This increases the range of functions and allows you to log wind data over set periods of time and export it to Excel or a text file.
In addition, the meter has a battery indicator with an auto power-off setting, shows the current temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit, and has two sensors for determining wind chill factor. If you require long-term, continuous measurements, the meter conveniently attaches to a regular camera tripod and comes complete with a carrying strap, batteries, and soft protective case.
The display panel has a simple four-button interface and a digital screen to show the current, average, and maximum wind speed and temperature. In addition, the meter pairs with your smart devices via Bluetooth. The iENV mobile app is free to download and displays real-time data along with the option to record wind readings for future analysis.
Additional useful functions can also be controlled through the app, such as setting alerts for maximum and minimum wind velocities, changing the units of measurement for wind and temperature, and exporting data logs to histogram.
The wireless control panel has a 100-meter range and a visually pleasing, easy-to-read display. It features a large compass rose that shows the wind direction and current speed along with other useful data points such as maximum speed over the last hour and wind speed trend.
For long-term analysis, you can also record wind and temperature data history and set up customizable alerts for rapidly changing weather conditions. Additionally, the station is compatible with various add-on sensors for measuring rainfall, sunlight, or temperature and humidity in other locations around the home.
It transmits the readings to your smart devices using Bluetooth and is compatible with various weather-related apps such as Wind & Weather Meter, iKiteSurf, iWindsurf, SailFlow, FishWeather, and WindAlert, making it a versatile accessory for sailors, fishermen, and sportspersons alike. In addition, the meter can be used to record various weather measurements and instantly send them to yourself and others via Email, SMS messages, Twitter, or Instagram.
The meter comes in a hard protective case and includes a carrying strap and a metal ring for attaching it to your key ring. So, if you are looking for a compact wind meter with a good range of functions you can’t go wrong with the WeatherFlow Meter.
Additional features are available when connecting the meter to your smartphone, which allows real-time measurements to be logged and stored for specific periods of time. The meter also incorporates a USB port for connecting to a PC or laptop for more detailed analysis.
The exterior is made of durable ABS plastic with rubber grips and has a mounting hole in the base for connecting to a tripod or to attach the lanyard. For protection, the anemometer is supplied with a durable soft case.
The outdoor sensor can be positioned up to 450 feet away and comes with an adjustable bracket for mounting on a pole or railing. Live updates are transmitted to the wireless console every 12 seconds. In addition, the system syncs with live weather servers via your PC to track current weather metrics, view trends over a 500-day period, and analyze historical graphs.
For convenience, the console can be wall-mounted or used on a countertop with the included stand. It has simple touch button controls, an amber backlight, and is powered by either the included USB adapter or batteries. So, if you are looking for a digital wind speed meter that does more than provide wind measurements, it’s hard to beat the Logia 5-in-1 Weather Station.
Commonly the unit of measurement is meters per second or miles per hour, however, sailors tend to use knots which is equal to 1.15mph.
For HVAC and ventilation installations the airflow should be measured in volume, which is typically calculated in cubic feet per minute, or CFM.
Q: What Is Average Wind Speed?
Throughout the US, the average wind speed is between six and 12 miles per hour. High wind conditions refer to sustained gusts of 21 to 25 miles per hour, which may blow around loose objects such as garden furniture.
Extreme wind is anything over 58mph and is usually accompanied by severe weather.
For sailing and windsurfing, the best wind speed is between five and 12 knots and conditions usually become too rough for small boats over 15 knots.
Q: What Is The Best Height To Install A Fixed Wind Meter?
Ideally, a wind measurement should be taken at 10 meters above the ground. If you are installing a wind sensor on your property then it is usually best to locate it on the roof of your house.
If there are trees or other tall buildings nearby then try to install it as far away from these as possible to avoid inaccuracies. Using a rigid pole is a good option if it helps avoid obstructions.
