Should You Bring Your Rain Gauge Inside for Winter?
The World’s Coolest Rain Gauge is designed to handle year-round outdoor use in most climates. The solid copper container, durable powder-coated steel holders, and polycarbonate measurement tube are all made to stand up to weather far better than traditional glass rain gauges.
That said, bringing your rain gauge inside for winter can help protect it, keep it looking its best, and prevent a few cold-weather issues that occasionally occur during freezing conditions.
Can You Leave a Rain Gauge Outside in Winter?
Yes. In most cases, our rain gauges can remain outdoors year-round.
Unlike glass rain gauges, there’s no fragile glass cylinder to crack or shatter during freezing weather. The floating blue measurement tube is made from durable polycarbonate, and the copper outer container naturally tolerates freezing temperatures.
Many customers leave their gauges outside all winter with no issues.
Why You May Still Want to Bring It Inside
While winter storage is not required, there are a few reasons we suggest bringing the gauge indoors during extended freezing or snowy weather.
1. Ice Can Occasionally Push the Measurement Tube Up
During freeze/thaw cycles, water can freeze into an ice column inside the copper container. In rare cases, expanding ice may push the floating blue tube upward.
If the tube rises high enough, strong wind or additional ice movement could potentially dislodge it.
This is uncommon, but it’s the main reason we recommend occasional winter checks or indoor storage during severe weather.
2. Rain Gauges Don’t Measure Snowfall Well
Like most standard rain gauges, the World’s Coolest Rain Gauge is designed primarily for liquid rainfall.
Snow tends to accumulate unevenly, freeze, drift, or block the opening, making measurements unreliable. While melting snow can sometimes provide an approximate water equivalent, the gauge is not intended as a snow gauge.
3. Lacquered Copper Finishes Should Be Stored Indoors
If your copper container has been lacquered to preserve a bright polished finish, winter exposure is much harder on the coating.
Freezing temperatures, moisture, UV exposure, and expansion/contraction can cause lacquer coatings to deteriorate over time. Lacquered gauges should ideally be brought indoors during winter and may eventually require recoating to maintain the bright finish.
Natural unlacquered copper generally performs better outdoors long term and will gradually develop a rich patina.
Easy Winter Storage
If you decide to store your gauge for winter:
- Remove the copper container from the holder
- Empty any remaining water
- Store the gauge upright indoors or in a garage/shed
- Keep the blue measurement tube inside the copper container or store separately
Installation in spring takes only seconds.
Winter Tips for Leaving Your Gauge Outside
If you prefer year-round display, here are a few simple tips:
- Empty the gauge before major freezing events when possible
- Check occasionally after ice storms
- Remove heavy snow accumulation around the gauge
- Avoid forcing frozen components apart
Many customers enjoy the copper container as part of their winter garden decor even when they are not actively measuring rainfall.
A Rain Gauge Built for Real Weather
The World’s Coolest Rain Gauge was created to be durable, practical, and fun to use in real outdoor conditions — not just fair weather.
With proper care, your copper rain gauge can provide many years of reliable service through rain, sun, heat, and winter weather alike.
