The Ultimate Guide to How to Calibrate Hygrometer Attached to Humidor

Are you a cigar aficionado who wants to ensure your precious cigars are stored in the ideal environment? Knowing how to calibrate hygrometer attached to humidor is crucial for maintaining the perfect humidity levels. A properly calibrated hygrometer ensures your cigars age gracefully and retain their flavor and aroma. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of calibrating your humidor hygrometer, ensuring your cigars are kept in prime condition.

The Importance of Calibration

A humidor hygrometer measures the relative humidity (RH) inside your humidor. While many humidors come equipped with built-in hygrometers, these instruments can drift over time, leading to inaccurate readings. An inaccurate reading can result in your cigars becoming too dry (under humidified) or too moist (over humidified). Both scenarios can negatively impact the quality of your cigars.

When to Calibrate Your Hygrometer

Several factors can affect the accuracy of your humidor hygrometer. It’s recommended to calibrate your hygrometer at least once every six months, but more frequent calibration is advisable if:

• Your humidor is frequently opened and closed: This can impact the internal humidity and potentially affect the hygrometer’s accuracy.
• You live in a humid climate: Higher humidity levels can influence the hygrometer’s readings.
• You notice significant fluctuations in humidity levels: If you see drastic changes in your humidor’s humidity, it’s a sign that your hygrometer might be off.

Tools You’ll Need

Before embarking on the calibration process, gather the following tools:

• A calibrated salt solution: This is the most accurate way to calibrate your hygrometer. You can purchase a pre-made solution or create your own by mixing distilled water and table salt.
• A small airtight container: A mason jar or a similar container will do.
• A digital hygrometer: This is optional but highly recommended for comparing readings and ensuring accuracy.
• A small piece of paper towel: This will be used to absorb excess moisture.

Step-by-Step Calibration Process

Now, let’s dive into the calibration process, step by step:
1. Prepare the Salt Solution: Mix a tablespoon of table salt with 100 ml of distilled water in your airtight container. Ensure the salt dissolves completely.
2. Place the Hygrometer in the Solution: Carefully place your humidor hygrometer inside the container, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the salt solution.
3. Seal the Container: Close the container tightly and leave it undisturbed for at least 24 hours.
4. Check the Reading: After 24 hours, carefully remove the hygrometer from the container. The reading should be around 75% RH. If the reading is not within 75% ± 2%, you’ll need to adjust the hygrometer.
5. Adjusting the Hygrometer: Most humidors have a small screw or dial on the back of the hygrometer. This is used to adjust the reading.

• If the reading is too high: Turn the screw clockwise to decrease the reading.
• If the reading is too low: Turn the screw counterclockwise to increase the reading.

6. Repeat the Process: After adjusting the hygrometer, repeat steps 1-4 to ensure the reading is accurate.

Maintaining Accuracy

After calibration, it’s essential to maintain the accuracy of your hygrometer. Here are some tips:

• Avoid exposing the hygrometer to extreme temperatures: Heat and cold can affect the hygrometer’s accuracy. Store your humidor in a controlled environment.
• Clean the hygrometer regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate on the hygrometer’s sensor, affecting its readings. Wipe it down with a soft cloth.
• Use a digital hygrometer: A digital hygrometer is a more accurate and reliable way to monitor humidity levels. Use it to compare readings with your humidor’s hygrometer.

Final Thoughts: The Key to Cigar Preservation

Calibrating your humidor hygrometer is a crucial step in ensuring your cigars are stored at the optimal humidity level. By following the steps outlined above, you can guarantee the accuracy of your hygrometer and prevent your cigars from becoming dry or overly moist. Remember, a properly calibrated hygrometer is the key to preserving the flavor and aroma of your prized cigars.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: How often should I calibrate my humidor hygrometer?
A: It’s recommended to calibrate your hygrometer at least once every six months. However, more frequent calibration is advisable if you live in a humid climate, frequently open and close your humidor, or notice significant fluctuations in humidity levels.
Q: What if my hygrometer is beyond repair?
A: If your hygrometer is beyond repair, it’s time to invest in a new one. Look for a hygrometer with a good reputation and a warranty.
Q: Can I use distilled water instead of a salt solution for calibration?
A: No, distilled water alone is not suitable for calibration. The salt solution creates a specific humidity level that allows for accurate calibration.
Q: What is the ideal humidity level for storing cigars?
A: The ideal humidity level for storing cigars is between 65% and 70% RH. Maintaining this range will help your cigars age gracefully and retain their flavor and aroma.
Q: What is the best way to store my cigars?
A: It’s best to store your cigars upright in a humidor with cedar shelves or trays. This allows for proper air circulation and prevents the cigars from being crushed.