Expert: James Yee - 1/6/2009

Question
James,

I have just purchased and seasoned my new Siglo humidor. In the 48 hours since I seasoned the humidor the humidity remains at 75%. Is this ok and should I start to see it fall to 70% without needing to add the 50/50 solution. Furthermore, it is summer in Australia and I have no air conditioning in my apartment so it is constantly 25 degrees centigrade. Any tips for cooling the humidor down? I have tried putting it in different places but it stays between 24 and 25 degrees. Should I take it to a cooler location (like parents house)?

Cheers Tim

Answer
Hi Tim,

Usually, a seasoned humidor should be able to create 70% humidity without any problems but sometimes they may be slightly off.  Wait another two days and watch if the humidity level balances out at 70%.  If the humidity doesn't correct itself, what you can is add a 50/50 mixture or simply add a few drops of propylene glycol to the humidification device and this will lower the humidity.  It may take up to a week for the humidity to stabilize after you add the PG mixture so be patient.  Usually a 50/50 mixture will create exactly 70% humidity in your humidor but if not, you will need to fine-tune the PG mixture.  For example, if the humidity is still too high, add a few more drops of propylene glycol and then allow the humidity to stabilize again.  If the humidity is now too low, dilute the PG by adding more distilled water.

As for temperature, you will definitely need to keep your humidor somewhere that is 23 degrees Celcius or less. (21 degrees is ideal.)  Avoid keeping your humidor near windows and natural sunlight.  Try keeping it in a cool place such as your closet.  If you're having trouble finding a naturally cool spot in your apartment, you will need to cool the humidor down with air-conditioning or an electric fan.  If your parents' house is cooler, it will also help to store your humidor there.

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

Regards,
James