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

Question
Hi Bill,

I recently purchased a 100ct humidor that I seasoned about 2 weeks ago. The analog hydrometer on the front was reading about 64-65% humidity...I found that the humidifier that came with it(the black block sponge type) was not holding it's charge. I was consistently adding distilled water to it. I decided to get an extra digital hydrometer to be placed inside the humidor to ensure proper humidity and also a new Madeline Crystal humidifier which turns into a gel when you add the 50/50 mix to it. I did the salt test with the digital hydrometer and when I woke up yesterday morning  it was reading 78% humidity and 74 degrees. I chalked that up to the difference between what it should read and what it  actually is (off by 8%). When I woke up today, it was reading 74 degrees but 80% humidity inside the humidor. Is this normal? I thought I did the whole salt test correctly  but if this is really not working properly, what do I have to do to drop the humidity and ensure I do not ruin any of my cigars? thanks for your help.

Answer
Rob,

Remember that your are reading relative humidity, that is humidity relative to the temperature you have the cigars stored at. I have written a rather detailed explanation of cigar storage, humidity.. that I will be happy to e-mail you (too long to post here). If you are interested e-mail me at b.finck@finckcigarcompany and I'll be happy to send it to you. I think it will help answer your questions and help you figure out what is going on with your humidor.

Thanks,
Bill Finck Jr.