Humidity control is a major concern for piano owners in South Florida, where relative humidity levels are quite high. The optimal relative humidity level for the piano is between 40% and 50%. Piano Service Center recommends the installation of a  Damp Chaser system in conjunction with a string cover  to achieve this goal.  A piano contains steel, wood, and felt, all of which are affected by humidity levels in the following ways:

• The soundboard swells during humid conditions which causes the pitch to rise.
  
• Constant changes in the soundboard humidity levels may eventually cause cracking.
  
• Swelling of the keys will cause them to stick, feel heavy, and  play unevenly.
  
• Swelling of the action parts that move will cause them to play very slowly, affecting
  repetition.
  
• Excessive moisture around the strings and tuning pins will cause rust.
  
• Changes in humidity levels will eventually cause failure of glue joints.
  
• High humidity will also swell the hammer felt which creates a muffled tone.

 
Addressing these issues will keep your piano sounding better and will extend its life. Virtually all of the piano
manufacturers recommend the Piano Life Saver system. This system contains a dehumidifier, a humidifier,
and a thermostat. The thermostat monitors the moisture content in the soundboard and turns on the
necessary component to keep the piano in the 40% - 50% range. The humidifier component is usually not
needed in the South Florida area where the heat is rarely used.

To provide the best possible protection for your piano we recommend the installation of a high quality piano
string cover as well. We use and recommend Dawson Piano String Covers. They are made from 100% wool
and will keep the interior of your piano looking new as well as hindering rust and corrosion.

If you would like more information or a price quote on either of these fine products please submit you request
at our contact page. Please include the brand, model, and serial number of your piano if available.