r/cigars•
morkman100

Odd issue with condensation and low RH in my wineador

[HELP!]

Have had my NewAir 280 wineador running rock solid since I got it last year. Has 3 drawers and 2 shelves from Forrest and using about 2 lbs of KL for humidity. Until about 2 weeks ago, it was solid at 65-68F and 63-65% RH. Unit is in my office so room temps sits at about 75F during business hours then probably hits 85F on the weekends, and about 50% humidity. Some minor issues with RH/temp zoning, so figured I'd eventually install a separate fan to help with air flow. I use a Ambient Weather wireless RH/temp system with 3 sensors (top, middle, bottom). Just recalibrated to make sure they were all correct.

So 2 weeks ago, I noticed that the unit wasn't getting quite as cool (68-71F) and the RH stared to drop pretty quickly... down to maybe 55%. Added a little more water to the KL and 2-3 days later, no change in RH. When I went to check things out inside, I noticed a good amount of condensation inside along the back and bottom (maybe 5-6 tbsp worth). Cleaned things up, added more water, and installed the circulation fan. Also resealed the drain with some putty (both inside and outside). Gave it 3-4 days to settle. Checking today, RH is still dropping a bit (about 54% average) and another 5-6 tbsp of water at the bottom and at the drain.

I'm at a loss. I can't seem to wrap my head around getting so much condensation at a relatively minor temperature/RH difference compared to ambient, and for that much condensation when the RH is so low to begin with.

i have a NewAir 181 at home that is completely rock solid and doesn't leave 66F/64% all year round.

TL;DR: Wineador is getting lots of condensation with a 55%RH inside. No likey.

Any ideas?

Posted Jul 31, 2015, 11:29 PM UTC

36
Loading comments…