Monday, November 29 1999
Q. I recently purchased the “
Xikar Crystal Humidifier 250 Rectangular“ from Famous Smoke Shop about a month ago. I have a
humidor that is holding about 110 cigars and it is full. My problem is that I can’t get the humidity below 75% Could this humidifier be too big? I assumed that if it gives off 70% humidity, the amount of cigars wouldn’t be a factor. Am I wrong?
- Eric in Jacksonville, FL
A. Yes and no, The crystal humidifiers do emit a (relatively) consistent 70% RH, but you’ve already discovered the obvious. The unit is made to handle more than twice the amount of cigars you have in the box. In some ways, having a bigger humidifier is better because it’s easier to control the humidity in the long run. But a unit made for more than double the number of cigars you have may be overkill.
Here's what I suggest: Remove the humidifier and let the unit “dry-out” for a day. The RH% should now start to go down in the humidor. Once it hits about 65% put the XiKAR back in. Take another reading after 24 hours. Keep doing this as necessary until the RH is where you want it; about 67% RH avg. is quite acceptable.
When it's time to recharge it, just add a little bit of solution, say, a tablespoon or more (in your case XiKAR brand solution only, or distilled water.) Eventually you’ll know just how much to add when needed to get the RH you prefer. If that doesn't do it, you may need to get a humidifier made closer to the capacity of your cigar humidor.
