Expert: James Yee - 10/11/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
I have recently bought a humidor which came with acryl polymer crystals, (not beads). Can you explain exactly how to get this functioning correctly so it releases the humidity.

Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Adam,

Your humidor crystals should include a jar or container that has perforated holes on the lid; like a salt shaker.  To use your crystals, simply add distilled water to the jar of crystals and they should expand and form a gel-like substance as they absorb the water.  You then just store the entire jar in your humidor.  When the crystals begin to decrease in size and your humidity level drops, refill with more distilled water.

If your crystals does not include a perforated jar or container, you will need to use either a plastic or glass container that has a perforated lid (medium to large-sized salt shakers work best).  To avoid bacteria contamination, be sure to use a brand new container or sterilize one that you already have.  Also, be sure to use a container that is large enough to store all the crystals plus have extra room for when they expand.

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

Regards,
James

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

QUESTION: Thanks for the reply, the crystals don't come with a jar or container, I have my humidifier (used to contain sponge). Can I not use this?

Regards.

Answer
Hi Adam,

Yes, you can use the housing for your humidification device.  The housing may not be large enough to hold all the crystals (when they're fully expanded) so start off with a small amount of crystals, add water and see how much they expand, if there's room for more expanded crystals, add them.

Be sure to thoroughly wash the housing first to remove all loose sediment from the sponge.  These crystals can also drip water so only lay the humidification device flat in your humidor.  Do not affix it underneath the humidor lid.

Regards,
James