Worried about how humidity will affect your guitar?
Have you noticed unusual changes in the feel or look of your guitar?
Here are a bunch of handy tips to safeguard your treasured instrument:
All Tips are approved and recommended by Faith Guitars' technical director, Patrick James Eggle.
- Buy a guitar humidity control system from your local music store or online.
There are a number to choose from, and are not expensive. They come with full, simple instructions.We have personally used a couple of systems:
* Kyser Lifeguard Humidifier. A simple, but fool proof system to add moisture to your guitar. (But be careful not to get your guitar wet).
* D’Addario, Planet Waves - Humidpak Two-way system. A more complex system that both absorbs moisture and delivers moisture when needed.
We recommend that you do your own research and see what works best for you. - Invest in a digital Hygrometer.
This simple and inexpensive device will tell you the relative humidity of your instrument’s environment – probably your guitar case is the best place for this.
NB: Ideal relative humidity levels will be between 45-55%. - When not in use, keep your guitar laid flat in its case with the lid closed – preferably with a humidifier and hygrometer inside.
- Do not place your guitar near a radiator, fan heater or other source of 'dry heat'. The air immediately surrounding the guitar will rapidly lose its moisture.
- It is advisable to avoid hanging your guitar on an outside wall inside your home. During particularly cold months, the temperature and humidity acting on the back of the guitar will differ from the front.
- If transporting your guitar, avoid putting it in the trunk of the car.. or the ‘boot’ as we call it in the UK. The car’s trunk will probably get very hot or very cold.. either way, it’s best to keep the guitar in the passenger compartment.
- If your guitar is exposed to freezing temperatures, once taken indoors it’s best to leave it in its case to reach room temperature slowly.
Do be aware that no guitar manufacturer will cover humidity-related damage under warranty.
So please take note of these tips and heed the advice.