Accuracy Test
The best way to test accuracy is with a side-by-side test of the indoor and outdoor unit. All electronics have different tolerances. Comparing a La Crosse Technology sensor to a La Crosse Technology display allows us to test with known tolerances.
To begin check your channel setting and that the display is not stuck on the min/max readings.
CHECK CHANNELS: Some weather stations have a CH or channel button and can pick up a neighbor's sensor on a channel that you believe your sensor is on. If your station has a CH or Channel button, please press and release that button to determine if you are picking up more than one sensor.
CHECK MIN/MAX MODE: Please check that your display is not stuck in Min or Max mode, which will cause your temperatures to read incorrectly.
SIDE-BY-SIDE TEST:
- BRING SENSOR TO DISPLAY: Please bring your outdoor transmitter inside and place it beside the display unit (no further than 1 foot away) for at least two hours.
- COMPARE: Then compare indoor and outdoor readings; the temperature difference should be no more than four degrees (+/- 2 degrees). Humidity can be up to 14% difference (+/- 7%). If the difference is greater, place your sensor in the freezer for 20 minutes to be sure you are reading your sensor and not a neighbor's. If the sensor reads correctly while next to the display then try a different location outside. Look for heat sources such as sunlight, door or window frames, or reflected heat. Check for the same things on whatever you are comparing the reading to.
If you are still seeing issues with your unit after going through the above side by side test, create a ticket via our support form or start a chat, including the answers to the below questions:
Q: Is the temperature incorrect during the day and night?
Q: After the sensor was near the display for 2 hours:
* What were the indoor and outdoor readings?
Q: Did you see other readings when pressing the channel button (if available)?
Q: Did you see minimum, maximum, and current readings (if your station has a MIN/MAX button)?
Q: Where is the sensor mounted outside?
* Is it under an overhang?
* Which direction does it face and how far is it from windows or heat sources?
* What are you comparing the readings to?
Batteries remain the #1 warranty issue we see. We advise the use of batteries dated 6 or more years in advance of the current year. If you have a voltmeter that reads numerically, a minimum voltage of 1.48V for each battery is necessary for proper performance. Batteries dated earlier than 6 years from now may still work, but may be unstable in performance.