Info on humidity

Discussion in 'Cellaring / Aging Beer' started by EWR2STL, Oct 21, 2013.

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  1. EWR2STL

    EWR2STL Initiate (0) Feb 4, 2013 Missouri

    Just bought a freezerless refrigerator and external temp controller based on a thread I found here on BA (links paste below my question for reference).

    My questions relate to humidity. What level "should" it be? What do folks do to achieve that?

    In reading the 101 thread about cellaring, it mentions:

    "Note on refrigerators: Long-term use is not recommended. Refrigerators are designed to keep food dry, so dehydration of cork can become an issue (laid-down or upright). Corked beers that you wish to age long-term should be kept in a cellar, where moderate humidity levels might be more appropriate. "

    I also read some folks comment about so much condensation in their fridges that the labels on beers are peel ohm off.

    So that's where I'm at - any input and information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much...


    Links to what I just bought - I can post back after I get it all set up:

    Fridge: http://www.kenmore.com/kenmore-16.7...p-04660722000P?prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1

    Controller: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00368D6JA/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

    And this to keep checks and balances: http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Servic...tor-Thermometer/dp/B000BPE88E/ref=pd_sim_hi_1
     
    #1 EWR2STL, Oct 21, 2013
  2. Davl22

    Davl22 Maven (1,341) Sep 27, 2011 New Hampshire
    Trader

    The humidity in my upright freezer/cellar fluctuates with the seasons because its in my garage. During the summer I need to throw a couple Damp rid containers inside or my labels will start peeling. During the winter I take them out because theres no condensation buildup. "Experts" say 70% is the proper humidity level for cellaring wine/beer but nothing is written in stone. If you're that worried you could buy the larger humidity jars they sell for humidors and stick it in the fridge. But I honestly don't think it matters that much. My main goal is making sure I don't have condensation.
     
    #2 Davl22, Oct 22, 2013
  3. rc51sport

    rc51sport Initiate (0) Feb 25, 2013 North Carolina

    Any refrigeration system will remove a good bit of humidity. That's just how it works. How much depends could depend on your ambiant humidity and how often you open your fridge. If you plan on storing mostly corked bottles long term and don't plan on opening the fridge very often it may cause reason for concern (over long term periods).
     
    #3 rc51sport, Oct 22, 2013
  4. SHODriver

    SHODriver Pooh-Bah (2,415) Aug 13, 2010 North Carolina
    Pooh-Bah

    I've yet to have issues with labels peeling or corks falling apart and I've had some bottles in an actual fridge for almost three years.
     
    #4 SHODriver, Oct 22, 2013
  5. EWR2STL

    EWR2STL Initiate (0) Feb 4, 2013 Missouri

    Thanks for the feedback - once I get set up and running for a bit I'm sure I'll find out if I'm going to have any issues. I'll grab a humidity meter and see how close to 70% I'm steady at; also hopeful that the regulator holds a steady 55-degrees.
     
    #5 EWR2STL, Oct 22, 2013
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