Measuring equipment

[Shelldog]

Can anyone send links to different equipment that can measure temperature, humidity and uv that are actually reliable? The last set I got weren’t working at all and most of what I have looked at looks similar or the ones that looked good were £100 . Also wondering if equipment that can measure both temp and humidity is reliable or should I get equipment for both separately?
Thanks

 

[Littleredfootbigredheart]

So to measure temp and humidity, go with digital monitors, we personally use the exo terra combo meters, they’ve worked well for us so far, I’ve also heard folks say simple digital ones you get from the hardware store work fine too(pics attached for both)
You could also look into govee’s? They’re smart meters that measure both the temp and humidity and send the readings to your phone! Idk if they work if internet goes down though so maybe have back up monitors, if going for the govee I’d get one with multiple sensors.

To measure uv, the only way is a solar meter 6.5, I’ll warn, they aren’t cheap! But definitely worth the investment! You’re from the uk like me, meaning indoor uv will always be a must, so it is kinda important to measure ideally, plus it could save you replacing expensive bulbs too soon! So it pays for itself eventually

I’d bet yourself a temp gun to do back up checks too

 

[wellington]

Inexpensive digital ones usually work well. You should also get an infrared temp gun.
Any that looks like those in picture works fine

 

[Shelldog]

So to measure temp and humidity, go with digital monitors, we personally use the exo terra combo meters, they’ve worked well for us so far, I’ve also heard folks say simple digital ones you get from the hardware store work fine too(pics attached for both)
You could also look into govee’s? They’re smart meters that measure both the temp and humidity and send the readings to your phone! Idk if they work if internet goes down though so maybe have back up monitors, if going for the govee I’d get one with multiple sensors.

To measure uv, the only way is a solar meter 6.5, I’ll warn, they aren’t cheap! But definitely worth the investment! You’re from the uk like me, meaning indoor uv will always be a must, so it is kinda important to measure ideally, plus it could save you replacing expensive bulbs too soon! So it pays for itself eventually

I’d bet yourself a temp gun to do back up checks too

If I buy an infrared temp gun and a good hygrometer do I need to buy a combo one? Or can I just buy a combo and not need another??
Thanks

 

[Littleredfootbigredheart]

If I buy an infrared temp gun and a good hygrometer do I need to buy a combo one? Or can I just buy a combo and not need another??
Thanks

The reason I’d generally suggest having a monitor to measure your temp and humidity, along with a temp gun, is because temperature is probably one of the most important parts of keeping, so to have both a monitor and a gun, makes sure both types of the equipment is reading correctly, therefore meaning the temps are as they read.
Whereas if you just have a gun or just have a monitor, you have no way of knowing if potentially the equipment starts to malfunction or stop working, if your temps are in fact a true reading. Hopefully that makes sense, it’s a safety thing

 

[Shelldog]

The reason I’d generally suggest having a monitor to measure your temp and humidity, along with a temp gun, is because temperature is probably one of the most important parts of keeping, so to have both a monitor and a gun, makes sure both types of the equipment is reading correctly, therefore meaning the temps are as they read.
Whereas if you just have a gun or just have a monitor, you have no way of knowing if potentially the equipment starts to malfunction or stop working, if your temps are in fact a true reading. Hopefully that makes sense, it’s a safety thing

Ahhhhh ok thanks for explaining

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

If I buy an infrared temp gun and a good hygrometer do I need to buy a combo one? Or can I just buy a combo and not need another??
Thanks

Definitely no need to buy a separate hygrometer. Temperature gun and thermometer have a bit different usage and measure temperature differently:
1. Gun measures surface temperature. Quickly and less accurate (most guns are for construction works, so 3-5F off is not a big deal). For me it's most useful outdoors to check ground temperatures, tortoise shell temp and so on.
2. Thermometers measure ambient (air) temperature at spot where probe is located. They are slightly more accurate, slower heat up and cool down, yet they can have memory function (minimal temperature over 24 hours, for example). More advanced aka "smart" have historical data and smartphone alerts. In my opinion, they are more useful for indoors enclosures.

Both can be used indoors/outdoors and complement each other. A digital combometer is a good start.

 

[Shelldog]

Definitely no need to buy a separate hygrometer. Temperature gun and thermometer have a bit different usage and measure temperature differently:
1. Gun measures surface temperature. Quickly and less accurate (most guns are for construction works, so 3-5F off is not a big deal). For me it's most useful outdoors to check ground temperatures, tortoise shell temp and so on.
2. Thermometers measure ambient (air) temperature at spot where probe is located. They are slightly more accurate, slower heat up and cool down, yet they can have memory function (minimal temperature over 24 hours, for example). More advanced aka "smart" have historical data and smartphone alerts. In my opinion, they are more useful for indoors enclosures.

Both can be used indoors/outdoors and complement each other. A digital combometer is a good start.

So are either of these good??

 

[Littleredfootbigredheart]

I’m sure the one in the second pic will work fine

 

[Tom]

So are either of these good??

I wouldn't use those. Look at Wellington's post above. I have found that type to be the most useful and reliable.

 

[Littleredfootbigredheart]

I wouldn't use those. Look at Wellington's post above. I have found that type to be the most useful and reliable.

Let me see if I can find a uk link for that kind if you think they’re better, you can tell me if they’re right

 

[Littleredfootbigredheart]

These should do
We’ve personally found the probe ones work well but perhaps these are better, I trust Toms judgement

Amazon.com : ThermoPro TP49-2 Digital Room Thermometer Indoor Hygrometer Mini Temperature Monitor Humidity Meter for Home Office Air Comfort Thermo Hygrometer

@Tom they ok?

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

So are either of these good??

Fluke makes professional equipment, you don't need a temperature gun for 300+ pounds. Amazon Basics had one for 20 or so and there are even cheaper options for 10-15.

As for the combometers - it's been answered above. Probes are not necessary, because you'll have to manage the wires but can be slightly more accurate. If you want a "smart" one - TP-Link Kasa and Tapo or Govee should do the job.