A question about humidity control

[Joseph Garrett]

Aaron asked: "I would love a consensus opinion regarding those little boxes that one 
installs to regulate local environmental humidity. I was told by one party to 
steer clear of them because they can cause rot, and that the best thing is to 
keep the piano in conditions that 'a person would find comfortable', i.e., 
"What you find comfortable, the piano will find comfortable" (caveat being 
direct sun exposure, etc.). I was also told by another party that I *should* 
have one to prevent the soundboard from cracking.

I have a rebuilt 1886 Steinway-B (7', rosewood finish, 19th century Victorian 
legs and scrollwork, etc.). I of course don't want to hurt it, and want to 
protect it.

What to believe? Is there an objective answer?"

Thanks in advance,


Aaron,
I would strongly suggest a Complete Damp-Chaser system! Of course, IF it is possible to keep the whole room in proper temperature/humidity conditions, that is the ideal. However, that, really, is not the real world...Hence Damp-Chaser.<G> The person that told you the system causes rust, etc., really does not know what he/she is talking about. I've been using these systems for over 30 years and have never had such a problem. If anything, it prevents rust! This "story" seems to be circulating, a lot, amongst teachers and it just ain't true, IMO.
Sunlight should NEVER be on the piano! As for the comfort thingee: I was raised in Alaska and I find a room temperature of 60 degrees farenheit to my liking.<G> Although this is within the preferred temp range, (just barely), I don't recommend it for pianos, UNLESS it's consistant.<G> (flack suit zipped up tight<G>)
Hopefully, you are not "preparing" your piano like a previous "poster". That sort of nonesense is a no-no IMHO!
Regards,


Joseph Garrett, R.P.T.
Captain, Tool Police
Squares R I
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