Some tips for cleaning out the outdoor sensor array on the WS-2902A Osprey. This is the same outdoor sensor array on a few models; WS-2902A, WS-2000, WS-1550-IP, WS-1900.
This is a check list for every 3 months
I was not expecting to find any dirt in my rain tipper. What a surprise to find dirt in there with no tree around. I guess the wind and rain must bring down dirt. I brought a small screw driver to hold under the tipper while I cleaned it and I decided to leave the console powered. Then when I was done I decided to blow into around the tipper to see if any spiders or insects were hiding in there...and to my surprised the tipper did a full tip....so don't do that. Disconnect the console.
Here are some photos of the dirt (and a dead bug) and where I found spider web under the array. My station has been up and running for 3 months. The recommended maintenance is for every 3 months.
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Dirt even with no trees around...and a dead bug. 3 Months in service.
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Spider web under the sensor array between the pole and the radiation shield.
This is a check list for every 3 months
- Disconnect power to your console (and/or ObserverIP) before inspecting and cleaning - prevents false readings
- Yes you should worry about dirt and debris even if you have no trees
- If you think you can clean it without disconnecting the console don't blow into the rain tipper as that will cause it to tip
- Don't use any cleaning fluids as that could cause the plastic to dry. Just use damp paper towel or thin cleaning rag
- Check for spider webs inside and outside of the sensor array.
- If you have a bad insect problem the manual states that it is okay to do a quick spray of insecticide
- Ensure that your bubble level is still indicating that it is level
- Check battery compartment, inspect for leaks and test and replace batteries if needed, red light underneath should blink every few seconds.
- Replace batteries every 1 or 2 years to prevent leaks. Use Lithium AA batteries for better extreme temperature performance. Don't use rechargeable.
- Test that anemometer and wind vane spin freely
- Check mounting hardware for tightness and rust
- Make sure unit is still properly pointing north
- Don't forget to give the rain funnel a turn so that it doesn't fly off...it doesn't lock but just turn it
- Wipe radiation sensor
- Wipe solar panel
- Wipe radiation shield and inspect for bugs and insect stuff
- The manual states to spray the top of the sensor array with anti-icing silicon spray to prevent snow build up. I'm not doing that...I live in Florida.
I was not expecting to find any dirt in my rain tipper. What a surprise to find dirt in there with no tree around. I guess the wind and rain must bring down dirt. I brought a small screw driver to hold under the tipper while I cleaned it and I decided to leave the console powered. Then when I was done I decided to blow into around the tipper to see if any spiders or insects were hiding in there...and to my surprised the tipper did a full tip....so don't do that. Disconnect the console.
Here are some photos of the dirt (and a dead bug) and where I found spider web under the array. My station has been up and running for 3 months. The recommended maintenance is for every 3 months.
[ You are not allowed to view attachments ]
Dirt even with no trees around...and a dead bug. 3 Months in service.
[ You are not allowed to view attachments ]
Spider web under the sensor array between the pole and the radiation shield.