Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 2/11/2008

Question
Hi - I'm having trouble with my humidor. It doesn't want to stay at 70%, it's usually at 40%-50%. It has been this way for  a couple of months. I'm not sure what to do. I do have propylene glycol in it, my humidor is also about 3/4 full with  cigars. Could you give me any tips on what to do? Thanks!!

Answer
Janetta,
Since you say that your hygrometer usually reads 70% we can assume that it has been working properly. If the relative humidity is really 40-50% and has been this low for a couple of months, you should see your cigars drying out by now. If that is the case, your humidifier is not working anymore. Humidifiers have a life of a few months to a couple of years depending on the quality of the humidifier and the water/propylene glycol used in them. It sounds like it is time to replace yours. I really like the Madelaine or Xikar brands, especially the crystal types. They regulate humidity very well and last relatively long.

If your cigars are not drying out, the problem is with your hygrometer, not your humidifier. You can check it by wrapping it in a wet towel. In an hour or so it should read between 95% and 100% humidity. If not, either adjust it or get a new one. Again, I like the Madelaine and Xikar digital hygrometers.

Let me know if you have any other questions.
thanks,
Bill