Expert: James Yee - 3/22/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hi James
I have a cigar oasis, it is in a humidor that holds approx 4-500 cigars. I have had it now for about 4 years, I bought a new bottom for it about a year and a half ago (bigger) just so I don't have to fill it as often. How long would you suggest using the bottom for before replacing it. I noticed the extra water that I poured out after filling it up is kinda brown, is this normal? All I have ever used in it is distilled water.
Thanks for time.

ANSWER: Hi Grant,

Yes, it's common for the humidification element (foam, crystals, beads, etc.) to turn brown from lengthy use over time.  When this happens, you can replace the element.  It's best to replace the element every 2-3 years.  Although this brown tinge doesn't negatively affect your cigars in terms of flavour or aroma, it can eventually clog and impair your humidification element which can cause poor humidity performance.  This can cause your humidifier to absorb less water and require more frequent refills.

I hope this helps.  As always, 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 quick response to my question. Just another thing I would like to know, I have only had this refill cartridge for about a year and a half, and you were saying change it out every 2-3 years. With it turning brownish already should I change it sooner, also they say it comes with anti fungal liquid in it, does that diminish after time, or as long as I'm using clean distilled water I don't have to worry about it?

Answer
Hi Grant,

If the element has a very light brown/tan tinge, you can continue using it if you prefer.  If the colour is really dark, you should change it.  I usually change the element when it has a medium brown colour.  How fast the element turns brown varies depending on each indivdual's humidor environment, humidor size, number of cigars, etc.  For me, the average is 2 years but if your humidor's element gets dirty faster, by all means change it sooner.

The anti-bacteria chemical will eventually diminish over time even if you use distilled water.  If you begin to see mold forming on the element (even though your humidity level is normal), it's time to replace it.

Regards,
James