Calibration of a Hygrometer...would this work

[montecristo#2]

Originally Posted by T.G

Aaron, just out of curiosity, did you ever cross-check any of those hydrometers with a salt test?

I think you mean hygrometer.

I am actually salt test illiterate. I wish I was kidding, but I am not. After doing research for 10 years you would think I could follow a protocol, but I never seem to be able to get the salt mixture correct. I need exact quantities.

Boveda has lot of different size packets:

1. They have the large ones for humidors (65, 69, 72, 75... 84 for seasoning) - I think they say these are +/- 4% on the package. I assume they make these a little wet with the idea that most humidors need moisture and they want them to last at least 3 months. Plus they cannot account for the quality of the humidor. In a good sealing plastic container, I have had Boveda packets last for 2+ years. (I didn't realize they now make these at 62%.)

2. Then they have the large-thin packets they put in Fuente boxes or at least they used to have this size. I have not bought a box of Fuentes in a long time. I think these are 69 or 72 and I doubt these would work in a humidor with how thin they are.

3. They have the small packets they sell in jars for shipping with cigars. I think these are 69%.

4. Then they have the calibration kit. The packet is the same size as the small ones they ship with cigars, but it is set to 75%. The kit says it is accurate to +/- 0.3%.

They say the kit is only good for three months after it is open and I assume that is because the packet loses moisture over time. That is the reason I would not use the small 69% packets to try to calibrate a hygrometer as you have no idea how fresh they are. Plus, the plastic bag they use for the kit is pretty thick with a nice seal.

Are you sure the packets you have from the Fuente boxes have actual RHs on them instead of just a generic printed value?
As I said, I have no issues using the calibration kit. I know the salt test is free, but when you spend as much as some of us do on cigars you start losing count.