Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 10/31/2008

Question
QUESTION: My analog hygrometer has been stable at 70% since Sunday. Yesterday i bought a caliber 3 digital hygrometer/thermometer from JR Cigar. When I put in the new digital hygrometer my temp was at 73 degrees and humidity was at 70%. is this good or does the digital hygrometer need more time in the humidor to give an accurate reading , or can you suggest something else?

ANSWER: Anthony,

I'm not sure I understand what your question is - you say your analog hygrometer reads 70% and your new digital also reads 70%. If you are questioning if the humidity is too high, I don't think you have to worry. By the chart I use the ideal humidity at 73 degrees is 67%, but 70% won't hurt anything. Typically if there is a problem with a humidor it is that the humidity is too low, it is almost impossible to over-humidify cigars with an evaporative type humidifier. I'd say you are in good shape.

If I missed your question please let me know.
Bill

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: So,am I safe from beetle infestation?

ANSWER: Anthony,

Tobacco beetles can hatch at any reasonably moist humidity level as long as the temperature is not too cool for them. There is nothing you can do with your humidor to guarantee they won't hatch unless you keep it cool - like 60 degrees or so.

If you have concerns about that we sell a tobacco beetle trap that will attract and catch the males with a pheromone lure. It won't catch females and won't catch them until the larvae hatches, eats its way out of a cigar and then fly's to the trap. It really is meant to alert you that you have a problem before you have a huge infestation, it is not meant as a preventative measure.

Hope this helps.
Bill

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: So to lower my 73 degree temperature, should I move my humidor to a closet? This high temp has got me worried

Answer
73-74 degrees is the most common temperature people keep their humidors at, since they are stored in homes or at the office. Our retail store is a constant 73 degrees. I'm not sure why you are worried.

Regardless, I doubt that moving the humidor to a closet will reduce the temperature much.

Bill