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The
best
relative humidity level for any instrument is
somewhere between 45% and 55%. Most Instruments live
in this range very nicely.
When the relative humidity
level drops to 40% or below inside your home, your
instrument's fingerboard may start to shrink,
causing the frets to stick out slightly over the
edge.
At 35% relative humidity or less, the frets are
definitely starting to feel uncomfortable. The top
of your acoustic starts to shrink,
causing it to bow in or near the sound hole, making
the action higher, and you're beginning to notice
that your guitar doesn't play as well as it used to.
By the time your guitar has been living in 30%
humidity for an extended period of time, you may
start to see finish cracks, or even wood cracks in
the top.
A simple humidifier placed inside the instrument’s
case is an inexpensive way for you to avoid these
issues and can usually be purchased from your local
dealer.
The best place to store your instrument when not
using it is in it’s case
Avoid leaving instruments in severe temperature
situations. Extreme hot or cold climates can damage
finish, playability and lastly value.
Never leave your instrument in the trunk of your
car, direct sunlight or anywhere that you yourself
wouldn't want to be. If you’re not comfortable then
your instrument isn't either! Wipe off instrument
after every use.
This not only prolongs your string’s life but also
the life of the instrument. A clean instrument is a
happy instrument!
Never attempt major adjustments unless performed by
a qualified repair person.
Over tightening of the truss rod can result in non
repairable damage and can turn your instrument into
a door stop.
If you must store your instrument for an extended
period of time, loosen the strings to avoid damage.
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