The importance of calibrating a hygrometer for cigar storage and climate control

Measuring is knowing with a hygrometer

Measuring humidity is essential, especially when storing longfiller cigars. Cigars require stable humidity levels to maintain their quality, which is why it is important to accurately measure the humidity in your cigar storage cabinet. Improper humidity can cause cigars to become too dry or too moist, affecting their flavor and burnability.

A hygrometer is the instrument you use to measure the humidity in your cigar storage. It is crucial that it is properly calibrated to ensure accurate readings. Without calibration, readings can be inaccurate, which can lead to incorrect storage conditions for your cigars.

1. What is a hygrometer?

A hygrometer is a device that measures humidity. This is an important tool, especially for cigar enthusiasts, because proper humidity ensures the optimal storage conditions for cigars.

There are different types, such as analog and digital models. Analog hygrometers use a pointer to indicate humidity and are called a hair hygrometer, while digital hygrometers offer a digital display that is often easier to read. Both have their advantages, depending on your preference.

An accurately calibrated hygrometer is essential for proper cigar storage. If measurements are not reliable, cigars can be damaged quickly. Choosing a properly calibrated measuring device is therefore an important step in the process.

2. Calibration: What does this mean?

A properly calibrated hygrometer ensures that the measured humidity matches the actual value. Without calibration, the device can give erroneous readings, which can harm your cigars.

Calibration is the process of adjusting your hygrometer so that it accurately measures humidity. You can do this by comparing the device to a reference source whose humidity is already known thanks to another hygrometer. Otherwise, you will find more information on the meaning of calibration in the following section.

3. How do I calibrate a hygrometer?

Calibrating a hair hygrometer is usually a simple process. For a digital hygrometer, refer to the instructions given by the manufacturer in the product manual. Follow the steps below to calibrate the device:

1. Use a calibration solution:

• The salt method, a precision instrument for hygrometer calibration, requires careful preparation. Pour a small 5-millimeter layer of water into a plastic container. According to a saturated salt solution, make it by adding 40 grams of salt to 100 milliliters of water. An inverted glass is then placed in the tray, on which the hygrometer rests. After sealing the tray, it must be left in a constant temperature between 19 and 21 degrees Celsius for four hours. This period results in a relative humidity of 75% in the sealed room. Prompt action is required when setting the hygrometer to 75% after the four hours to maintain accuracy.

• The wet cloth method, an alternative to the salt method, offers a faster but less precise calibration. This involves wrapping the hygrometer with a wet cloth, simulating a relative humidity of 100%. After an hour, the hygrometer is set to 100%. Although this method is less accurate, it is a convenient option for quick calibration.

• Use the Boveda calibration kit. With this set, you get a kit that allows you to calibrate a hygrometer in a sealable ziplock bag at 75% in 24 hours.

2. Place the hygrometer in the solution: Place the meter in a closed room with the solution and leave it for a few hours.

3. Adjust the measurement: When the measuring device stabilizes, adjust the setting so that it indicates the correct value. With a hair hygrometer, this can be done carefully at the back with the screw.