Knowing how high should a thermostat be mounted is perhaps even more essential than what type you should buy, as the device’s location determines the result.
Almost, if not all, plants grow in an ideal range of temperature. However, the weather is not something that can be controlled. That is why gardeners choose to transfer their crops indoors or in greenhouses to develop regardless of the season.
In order to keep the temperature in check, you can make use of a device called a thermostat. You are free to choose from the many types available on the market, but you are recommended to purchase the ones that come with dust and moisture sensors.
A Guide to Mounting Thermostats in Your Garden
However, the type of thermostat that you should use is not the biggest concern. Instead, the location is. It should be installed in a place with uninterrupted access to the temperature near the plants that you are monitoring.
What affects thermostat readings?
Depending on where you install the thermostat, the temperature readings can differ. Likewise, higher regions are not as warm or as cool as the lower areas. Exposure to the sun, artificial sources of light, and even heat pipes can interfere with its accuracy.
The goal here is not to control the room’s temperature but of the zones where your plants grow. Mount the thermostat, not on any spot in the room but particularly the center. Then, install it as near to the crops as possible.
How high should a thermostat be mounted?
Aside from the location, it was also mentioned above that the level of the zones matter. Therefore, to be as close as possible to the plants’ exact temperature, mount the thermostat at the same height as your target crops.
If you are growing various plants, you do not have to remove and install the device every time you change or move your crops. Instead, mount it so that the height of the thermostat can be adjusted anytime.
What should be avoided when mounting thermostats?
If your plants have direct access to the heat of the sun, then do not place your thermostat near the source or window. Instead of reading only the temperature of the plant zone, the sunlight will also be considered.
If there is no available area away from the sun’s high temperature, you can go for covers instead. Shading the thermostat from direct exposure can help mitigate external interference.
Likewise, avoid mounting the thermostat near a lamp or any artificial source of light. Heating equipment should also be away from the device. Just as the case with natural heat, they can meddle with the original readings as well.
Make sure not to leave the thermostat unexamined for too long. Like other technological devices, its performance will eventually deteriorate as time pass by. Check its accuracy and condition yearly at least once.
Dust may also accumulate, which can affect the execution of the thermostat’s purpose. Furthermore, moisture can alter the results, so you should watch out for that as well. If your thermostat doesn’t come with sensors for the two, then manually check it.
If you would rather clean the device yourself than pay for the extra service, keep in mind that you should be delicate in handling the parts beyond the cover. You can make use of a soft brush or compressed air for this.
Top 4 Benefits of Using a Greenhouse for Your Plants
If you haven’t tried growing your crops in a greenhouse, you’re seriously missing out on the benefits of using one, such as:
All-season gardening
Traditional gardening methods don’t allow you to plant all types of crops all season. But with a greenhouse, you’ll be able to plant different kinds of plants all year round, regardless of the season. You’ll be able to control the temperature of your greenhouse and start planting earlier or later in the season.
More plants to choose from
Since you’ll be able to plant all season, you’ll also have more plants to choose from. With a greenhouse, you can grow plants that aren’t native to your area. These enclosed spaces typically provide a more humid and warmer environment compared to your garden. This continuous heat and insulation allow you to plant more vegetables, as well as exotic plants. If you understand the growing conditions of your plants, you’ll be able to adjust your greenhouse accordingly.
Grow your plants longer
One of the most notable benefits of greenhouses is that you can extend your plants’ growing season. With a greenhouse, you can control the temperature levels, humidity, and more to suit the needs of your plants. This allows you to plant weeks or months longer than you normally would in a garden.
Prevent pests
Greenhouses are also effective in protecting your plants from animals and insects. Moles, deer, birds, and other pests won’t be able to attack or eat your plants.
Final Thoughts: How High Should a Thermostat Be Mounted?
Without a doubt, a miscalculation in how high should a thermostat be mounted affects the results from the device and the overall condition of your plants. With that said, ignoring this step can, for sure, be fatal to the health and state of your crops.