Humidity: Best Care of Your Piano
Why Pianos Go Out of Tune
While factors like frequent and forceful playing, moving the piano, and the age of tuning pins contribute to a piano going out of tune, the primary culprit is changes in humidity. The piano's natural materials react to humidity fluctuations, leading to expansion and contraction, which in turn affects the soundboard's compression and the instrument's overall tuning.
Humidity Effects
Swelling: During humid months, the soundboard swells, increasing pressure against the strings, particularly in the middle sections. This results in a rise in pitch, especially in the tenor and middle registers.
Shrinking: In drier conditions, such as during the heating season, the soundboard shrinks, causing a drop in pitch, again more pronounced in the middle sections.
Mario Igrec, a renowned piano technician, emphasises that "controlling the climate is an absolute prerequisite for a piano's stability and longevity." Inconsistent climate conditions can lead to severe issues, including degraded soundboards, cracked wooden parts, damaged finishes, and compromised action mechanisms. This all deeply affects how your piano sounds.
Tips for Caring for Your Piano
To preserve your piano's condition and ensure it remains a joy to play, follow these key guidelines:
Avoid Temperature and Humidity Fluctuations:
Keep Away from Radiators and Heating Sources: Proximity to radiators, underfloor heating, and other heat sources can cause rapid changes in the piano's wood, leading to damage and tuning instability.
Shield from Windows and Draughts: Windows and draughty areas expose the piano to varying temperatures and humidity levels, which can harm its delicate internal components as well as affect the tuning of the piano.
Limit Direct Sunlight Exposure: Direct sunlight can overheat the piano's surface, causing the finish to crack and fade, while also affecting the wood's stability.
Maintain a Stable Environment:
Consistent Temperature: Aim to keep the piano in a room with a steady and stable temperature, ideally between 18-22°C (64-72°F).
Optimal Humidity Levels: Strive to maintain relative humidity between 45-55%. Using a hygrometer can help monitor humidity levels, and a humidifier or dehumidifier can assist in regulating the environment as needed.
Make Sensible Compromises:
If ideal conditions are unattainable, prioritise the lesser of two evils. For instance, placing the piano in an area with higher but consistent humidity then recommended might be preferable to an area with fluctuating humidity. Above all safety first, all upright pianos should be supported against a strong wall and safety castors should be installed on all school pianos to decrease the risk of falling.
If you think humidity might be an issue for you and your piano get in touch and I'll be happy to discuss options to help you keep your piano staying in tune for longer!