Thermometer
A room thermometer shows how warm the room really is, rather than how it feels. Keep it away from the radiator, the window and the sun, and compare readings at different times of day.
Tools
Tools
You do not need a laboratory to understand the microclimate of your home. A few simple instruments and tools are enough: they help you see what is usually judged by eye and check whether the solution you chose has worked. Here is what comes in handy, why, and what limits on accuracy to expect.
The most honest tool in the house is a notebook of readings. An instrument shows a value; a series of notes shows the truth.
How this section works: we list instruments and tools by task and explain why they are needed, without brands, models, prices or rankings. How to use a particular instrument correctly and how accurate it is are set out in the manufacturer's instructions.
What helps with checks and small repairs
Six instruments and tools that make it easy to monitor the microclimate and close small gaps.
Hygrometer
This instrument shows the relative humidity of the air. It helps you decide whether it is time to humidify or, on the contrary, better to air the room. Household hygrometers can differ slightly from each other, so changes matter more than the exact figure.
Sound meter on your phone
A sound meter app helps you compare where and when it is noisier. But a phone microphone is not a measuring instrument, and its readings are approximate. For a dispute with neighbours or a developer, you need measurements by specialists.
Thermal camera
A thermal camera shows where walls, windows and reveals lose heat. Buying one for a single inspection rarely makes sense: you can hire one or call in a specialist who will carry out the survey and explain the results.
Tape measure
Useful for measuring gaps, the width of sash rebates, curtain sizes and the distance between furniture and radiators. Simple measurements save you from buying things in the wrong size.
Draught strip and sealant gun
A supply of draught strip in a suitable profile and a sealant gun cover most small winter jobs. Clean and dry the surface before you start, and check the conditions of use on the packaging.
Related sections
- How-to
How to get a window ready for the cold and air a room in winter without draughts, and which jobs at home you should not do yourself.
- Care
Caring for windows, vent grilles, radiators, humidifiers, air conditioners and textiles, plus a seasonal check-up.
- Planning
Improving the microclimate step by step: measure, find the cause, start simple, check the result and only then buy appliances.
Sources
- GOST 30494-2011 (Russian standard)
- SanPiN 1.2.3685-21 (Russian sanitary rules)
Specific temperature, humidity and noise values are taken from the Russian standards GOST 30494-2011 and SanPiN 1.2.3685-21, and buyers' rights are described in general terms under the Russian Consumer Protection Law. Other countries use their own building, noise and consumer rules. The condition of your home's ventilation, heating and structure is assessed on site by specialists and your building manager or landlord, and health questions are a matter for a doctor.