Expert: James Yee - 1/9/2011

Question
Hi
I bought a new humidor it holds up to 500 cigars and I also bought a Oasis xl humidifier. So I follow all the directions in setting up and it's been three days now. Humidity is only 51% in the humidor and I wanted to know if that sounds right and if not how long does it take to get to the right humidity.

Answer
Hi Rui,

The first thing that you must do is make sure that your hygrometer is accurate.  With new humidors, the hygrometer may not be accurate and can give off false readings.  Conduct a salt test on your hygrometer and calibrate it if the reading is not accurate. (For detailed instructions on performing a hygrometer salt test, please use the search function here on allexperts and search for "Hygrometer salt test".)

If your hygrometer is accurate, then the cause of low humidity could be a construction defect or physical damage on the humidor itself that is causing the humidity to escape from the humidor.  Check the entire humidor for any construction flaws around the corner joints, door and/or lid.  Look for loose joints or hinges and gaps or cracks in the wood or lid that would cause humidity to escape.  If you find any physical defects or damage in the humidor, return it to the retailer immediately and they may be able to repair/service your humidor or replace it altogether.

With large, 500+ count humidors, seasoning can indeed take several days so if your hygrometer is accurate and the humidor does not have any physical damage or defects, let the humidor sit for a few more days.  If the humidity does not improve at all after a few days, return the humidor to the retailer for replacement.  Most cigar stores will also be able to season your humidor if you're not sure if you're seasoning it correctly.

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

Regards,
James