Water ingress in Smart Anemometer – brittle screw seal as possible weak point

I would like to document a failure of my Netatmo Smart Anemometer that may also be relevant to other users.

When changing the batteries, I found water inside the battery compartment. The battery contacts were already heavily corroded and the anemometer no longer works.

After examining the unit more closely, I found that the seal around one of the four bottom screws had become brittle. This provides a very plausible path for water to enter along the screw, potentially through capillary action.

After several exchanges, Netatmo Support confirmed to me that:

• the seals around the bottom cover and screws are part of the anemometer's overall weather sealing;
• these seals are not documented as user-serviceable wear parts;
• there is currently no recommendation to inspect or replace them periodically;
• a brittle or damaged seal can plausibly allow water to enter along the screw;
• this observation is considered a serious indication of a possible weakness in the ageing behaviour of this sealing point.

In my view, this is important because the device is intended for permanent outdoor use, while the user has no indication that these hidden seals may age and eventually compromise the waterproofing.

I am posting this mainly so that other owners are aware of this possible failure point and can inspect the screw seals when changing the batteries.

I would also be interested to hear whether other users have found brittle screw seals or water inside the battery compartment.