An open source project published by user laisch on Makerworld shows how 3D printing and an ESP8266 can be used to create a precise rain gauge for DIY weather stations. The model uses the tried-and-tested tipping bucket mechanism and can be seamlessly integrated into Home Assistant thanks to ESPHome. The solution is aimed at tech-savvy users who are looking for a cost-effective and low-maintenance way to measure precipitation.
The system is based on a 3D-printed housing with an integrated tipping bucket. The rainwater is fed into two symmetrical half-shells, which tilt when a certain volume is reached. A small magnet moves past a Hall-effect sensor, which registers the tilting movement as a pulse. A D1 Mini with ESP8266 module processes the recorded data and sends it to Home Assistant via WLAN. A BME280 sensor for temperature, humidity and air pressure can be integrated as an option.
Programming is carried out with YAML code via ESPHome. The number of tilting operations is counted and aggregated into different time intervals (1, 10 and 60 minutes). The values are displayed as sensors in the Home Assistant. Debounce filters prevent false triggering due to vibrations or contact flutter.
The entire project, including STL files and code examples, is available free of charge.
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