Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 11/9/2008

Question
I have to conclude that analog hyrometers are worthless.  Please tell me why I am wrong!

I have about a dozen of varying quality and manufacture and I have yet to find one that is, or can be made, accurate.  I calibrate each one with the salt test (often a couple of times) and I compare each one to a digital hygrometer.  even after exact calibration with a salt test, they are up to 20% different from one another and the digital benchmark.  One salt test will give one reading, and a second test will give a far-away indication.  Maybe you can tell I am frustrated.

I would love to have cheap hygrometers that are even close, but I have to conclude that a $25-35 digital model is the only way to go.  Since I have six humidors, this is getting pretty expensive.  End of rant.

Answer
Charles,

I agree that most analog hygrometers are more trouble than they are worth. The only way I use them is as a gauge to tell me if the humidity is falling, but I don't trust the actual reading they give. I've not found a brand that is accurate and reliable.

Regarding the digital models, I've had good success with the Madelaine brand. We sell them, your choice or round or rectangular, for $17.95. Still not cheap, but better than $25-$35... If you're interested you can see them on our site at www.finckcigarcompany.com

Wish I had a solution for you on the analog type, but I've felt the same frustration. If you read through the questions on this site, you'll see that they are probably the most common problem/question, and my solution is typically to switch to digital.

Sorry I can't be of more help.
Bill