How to Properly Situate a Thermometer?

I'd like to get a better idea how the micro-climates around my home differ from each other, and am thinking about buying three or four max/min thermometers to see how temperatures vary by location.

I'm especially interested in learning how big a difference it makes to place potted plants right up against the house. (Will the warmth of the house keep some of these plants alive through winter?)

If there is a big difference between a thermometer placed right up against the house and one placed at the far side of the backyard, it would also give me an indication that a lot of heat is escaping from the house.

In any case, I'd like to place one thermometer right against the house on the south side.
That would be in direct sunshine, which I've read is a no-no.

So, I am wondering, what is the recommended practice for getting an accurate temperature reading in a location?
Is it simply a matter of putting the thermometer in a cardboard box (to get it out of direct sunshine)?
A styrofoam box? etc.?
Any other factors to consider to ensure accurate readings at each location?

Are you going to be measuring soil temperatures?  If so a probe type thermometer might be helpful.

I would situate it at the base of the plant you are creating the micro-climate for.

Here is a thread that you or others might find of interest:

https://permies.com/t/22575/permaculture/Ways-warming-soil-temperature-creating

David Binner wrote:I'd like to get a better idea how the micro-climates around my home differ from each other, and am thinking about buying three or four max/min thermometers to see how temperatures vary by location.

I'm especially interested in learning how big a difference it makes to place potted plants right up against the house. (Will the warmth of the house keep some of these plants alive through winter?)

If there is a big difference between a thermometer placed right up against the house and one placed at the far side of the backyard, it would also give me an indication that a lot of heat is escaping from the house.

In any case, I'd like to place one thermometer right against the house on the south side.
That would be in direct sunshine, which I've read is a no-no.

So, I am wondering, what is the recommended practice for getting an accurate temperature reading in a location?
Is it simply a matter of putting the thermometer in a cardboard box (to get it out of direct sunshine)?
A styrofoam box? etc.?
Any other factors to consider to ensure accurate readings at each location?

I have been having many of the same questions trying to figure out what makes the best insulation?,    what makes the best thermal mass?,     what stores heat the longest?,      

I have been using laser temp probes,     and standard temp probes to get ideas,       there are many factors to consider.

That sounds like an exciting project! For accurate readings, try to keep the thermometer out of direct sunlight by using a well-ventilated cardboard or styrofoam box, and placing it about 4-5 feet off the ground. I can’t wait to see what insights you gain about those micro-climates around your home!

Richard Edward wrote:That sounds like an exciting project! For accurate readings, try to keep the thermometer out of direct sunlight by using a well-ventilated cardboard or styrofoam box, and placing it about 4-5 feet off the ground. I can’t wait to see what insights you gain about those micro-climates around your home!

Hey, Richard

I still feel the best solution is to measure soil temps ....

I hope David will come back and tell the forum what worked for him.