Expert: James Yee - 12/4/2008

Question
Hi James,
I have a Venitian style humidor. I have a digi hygrometer that is usually placed in the top shelf (for obvious reasons). Usually reads 70% / 71f
Weird thing though, I placed it on the bottom of the humidor and the humidity down there was at 61%. Is this normal for the humidity to be so different from top to bottom??
Would you suggest re-seasoning the humidor? With the recent temp. fluctuations in Canada, i can suspect that maybe that could be the cause of the wood drying out quciker.

Any suggestions?

Thank you

Answer
Hi Thomas,

It's possible that your humidor needs to re-seasoned but first, re-arrange your cigars and see if the humidity circulation improves.  If your humidification device is located at the base of the humidor, you should make sure that there are no obstructions throughout your humidor that would block humidity flow or restrict it to certain areas.  Evenly space all your cigars that are placed at the bottom of the humidor and make sure that the humidification device is not crowded or blocked by cigars, humidor compartments and/or fixtures.  If necessary, add an aerator panel to the base of the humidor and this will allow humidity to circulate much better at the base of the humidor and around your cigars.  Many cigar stores sell aerator panels but you can easily construct your own.

Also, with the weather becoming much colder, it's very possible that your humidor is starting to dry out so you will have to monitor your humidification element and recharge it more frequently.

Hopes this helps.  As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James