Looking for a good hygrometer/thermometer

[Paul Mc]

Ok, so I must be getting serious about my orchids now. I'm wanting to find a relatively inexpensive but accurate hygrometer/thermometer to measure the relative humidity and temperature of the places where my orchids are located to ensure I'm giving them what they really want.

But, after extensive reading (which I believe a lot of it is rather biased), I have yet to find one that would suit my purposes that is around or below $50. I just can't believe that one doesn't exist. Most of the ones I've looked at people are claiming that the humidity readings just aren't accurate, but of course they claim that the $150 and above range is.

Can anyone direct me in a good direction for a relatively inexpensive but good hygrometer/thermometer?

[Ray]

Paul - look in the "Miscellaneous" section of our store. We resell a reasonable-quality hydrofarm hygro-thermometer for only $22.

[BobInBonita]

THE FACTS:
I have two thermometers/hygrometers (one from Lowes and one from Target) that were in the $15 range (by memory). It's been a while since I purchased them. They both do temperature and RH, and both have max min functions.

I also have a Fluke hygrometer that was quite a bit more expensive (about $150) that we use in our homewatch business. It also does dew point.

Whenever I have compared them, all three have been within 2 degrees F. and within 3-4% RH. I have not done any sort of calibration curve comparing them through the temperature and RH range.

The cheap ones I'm comfortable leaving outdoors overnight to get a min temp. The expensive one, I treat pretty carefully to protect the sensor. If a cheap one gets sprayed or rained on accidentally, it's not a major issue. The cheap ones react MUCH more slowly to changes, especially RH changes, and have to be left in place for 5 minutes or more to equilibrate and give a stable reading. The Fluke is near instantaneous.

THE OPINION:
For the small (if any still exists) price difference, I think I'd go with Ray's hydrofarm unit. The brand is designed for gardening use, not normal household conditions, so is probably less likely to be damaged with normal orchid use.

[billc]

I've had the Hydrofarm Ray is talking about for maybe 2 years or so and it works fine. It's a good value.

Bill

[Paul Mc]

Thanks guys, I will be purchasing that come my next paycheck!