Hygro frustrations

SoddyDenizen

I've searched the archives and I think I know what my solution is but I still wanted to toss my dilemma on the table here. On my new 50 count humi I calibrated ( I thought) the analog that came with it. Seems to be 5 to 7 points lower than actual RH. So I purchased a couple of el-cheapo digitals that look like they are made for industrial use to fit in a housing of a machine of some sort. One seems to be stuck at 81 no matter where I place it, humi, room, basement, garage so it is no good I guess. The other seems to be somewhat more stable but I am still unsure of it's accuracy. I have gotten to the point that I am unsure of what my actual RH is inside my box because of an almost 20 point difference between the three hygros. Is there any way to start over and stableize these this to give me a more accurate reading, say within 5 points or so? Also, I have kept a hygrometer in the case with my acoustic mandolin for years with no wild fluctuations, it seems to stay around 45 to 50 where is should be. Not sure what the difference between a hygro for a musical instrument and a humidor is but it seems there is. Guess I will need to break down and get a decent digital. Hopefully I can get one that will fit in the front opening of the box where the analog now resides. Non of my cigars are very expensive but I have a few samplers that I don't want ruined due to improper storage. If anyone has any ideas to help me I would sure appreciate it. Can I do the salt test again? Not sure it will help but I need to try something. Thanks!

The Sniper

jlmarta

Roberto99

boydmcgowan

SoddyDenizen

Thanks for all the great help! Yes I am a bit of a tinkerer, it doesnt help that I cant leave this stuff alone sometimes. Guess I will make the investment and get a couple of good digitals for peace of mind and secure stoogie storage, along with the proper calibration kit. Not sure I did the salt test correctly. I found I have an "overflow" tupperware myself so a second unit will help me there until I decide on what size humidor I will need next. Those sticks accumulate don't they? I did look at Wal Mart (which I am loathe to go to) but did not find one, looking at the area with outdoor thermometers and such. Of course there is a WM about 30 miles in any direction from here so I will check a different one. I know it is stressed on this forum to not use the sponge stuff so I went with the gel off the bat. At least the humidification is steady with those. And boydmcgowen, I do like the idea of a single unit, at least for now, to rotate between the good humi and the tupperware. Now I am questioning my mandolin hygro as well. Sniper, thanks for all the good info and thanks for the extensive posts of all the things a noob should know. I have read that three times now, lots of good info! I appreciate you all!