Expert: James Yee - 6/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: I purchased a glass top, 50 count humidor a little over a year ago. I calibrated the hygrometer and charged the humidor and it's been great. But as the humidity has drastically increased lately I noticed that my hygrometer went from it's normal 68-70 right up to 75. I went to my local tobacco shop and they recommended a small jar of Xikar beads/crystals. I guess they're supposed to hold the humidor at 70/70. Everyone on the web seems to think they're great. My only problem is that the jar has been in now for 2 days and the hygrometer reads 74. Would you think this means that the beads are doing their job and my hygrometer needs to be re-calibrated or that the beads just aren't working?

ANSWER: Hi Jason,

Give your humidor a few more days for the humidity to stabilize.  Xikar crystals are pretty reputable and does lower humidor humidity to 70%.  If you haven't already, remove your older humidification device because it's no longer needed now that you have the crystals.  (Sometimes people accidentally leave their older humidifier in their humidor along with the crystals and this will increase humidity.)

It's possible that your hygrometer may be out of sync now so test its accuracy with the salt test and calibrate if necessary.

If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James

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

QUESTION: Hi James,

Thanks for the timely and informative response. I just have one more question. The salt test for calibrating the hygrometer usually takes about 6 hours ... is it ok to leave my humidor and cigars exposed (the hole where the hygrometer was) for that length of time?

Jason

Answer
Hi Jason,

During the salt test, it's best to put your cigars in Ziploc bags or (clean) Tupperware containers.  In warm/hot weather, your cigars can quickly dehydrate within a couple of hours; especially if there is an exposed opening where your hygrometer is normally located.  Because the salt test takes at least 6 hours, you should make sure your cigars are stored in sealed containers or the exposed opening in your humidor is well covered.

Regards,
James