Humidity Control
I depend on humidity control to keep a piano stable, in tune, and playing well. Dampp Chaser’s Piano Life Saver System attaches to the piano and controls the humidity in, and around the instrument. Dampp Chaser has been in the Humidity Control business for a number of years and their website has numerous articles that explain what issues you face without humidity control. They also enjoy the endorsement of a number of high-end piano manufactures. A Venta, ISA Airwasher is German engineered and controls the humidity in a room, cleans the air, and protects your wood items. Very low maintenance and ongoing expenses with this unit. Just keep it full of water and it is ready to go. HVAC units attach to your heating unit and provide proper humidity throughout your home. However, the added expense of electricity to run your HVAC system needs to be considered. You will need to seek to advice of a qualified HVAC business before deciding on these units.
Piano Life Saver System
A Piano Life Saver System from Dampp Chaser is a great way to protect your investment. It senses the humidity in the air directly associated with the piano and turns on and off the humidifier system and drying rods to keep the humidity level approximately 41.5%. They are low maintenance but do require the pads be changed at least twice a year. In addition, the water will need a surfactant added to keep address bugs and mold. Recommended by such vaunted manufacturers as Bechstein, Bluthner, Bosendorfer, Petrof, Sauter, and many others, this humidifier system will protect your investment in a fine instrument. Dampp Chaser as spent a lot of time and resources in investigating the humidity needs of a piano and have a wealth of information available on their website. Be sure visit them. You will not be sorry.
Case #1 - Foursquare Church, Akron, CO
Foursquare Church in Akron Colorado purchased a brand new Pramberger 178 for their new sanctuary. It was a beautiful shinny black 7′ grand and had a beautiful sound. Another technician was involved in the purchase, installation, and maintenance for a number of years till he decided to retire. I received a phone call and went out to look at the piano. German parts, good design, and LOTS of sound made it the perfect instrument for their auditorium. When I arrived, there were a number of small items I consider important and one major problem. The soundboard had a 1/4″ crack all across the vibrating area and the sound produced had become a bit “thin”. I called Dampp Chaser and discussed the problem with their engineering group. About a week later, they called back, asked a few more questions, and recommended we install a double grand unit. This is usually saved for nine-foot concert grands. However, due to the dry climate in Akron, they feared I wouldn’t have enough humidity with which to work. The unit was paid for, ordered, and installed and has been working ever since.
The bigger question for me is did the installation of a humidifier fix anything or just prevent further issues. I am not invovled in the sciences to be able to address what happened but the 1/4″ crack all but closed. The soundboard started to produce the rich tones it was known for. And a much needed, but costly repair was avoided. I cannot say wither this will work every time. It may, it may not have such a drastic impact. But regardless, the pastor and others were extremely happy. Should you install a unit? Several major piano makers think so.