Protecting Your Piano from Summer Humidity: Tips to Keep It Tuned and Trouble-Free
by - The Piano Doctor

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Summer brings sunshine, beach days, and… sneaky humidity that can wreak havoc on your beloved piano. As The Piano Doctor, I’ve seen countless instruments suffer from swollen wood, detuned strings, and warped actions—all because of those steamy months. But fear not! With a few simple strategies, you can shield your piano and keep it playing beautifully year-round. Let’s dive into why humidity matters and how to combat it.

Why Summer Humidity is a Piano’s Nemesis
Pianos are like fine wine—they thrive in stable environments. High humidity (think those muggy July afternoons) causes the wood in your piano’s soundboard, bridges, and keys to absorb moisture and expand. This leads to sticky keys, out-of-tune notes, and even long-term damage like cracks when things dry out later. Ideally, aim to keep your piano room’s humidity between 40-60% to mimic the controlled conditions where most pianos are built. Too much moisture? You’re inviting trouble. The good news: Prevention is easier (and cheaper) than repairs!
Tip 1: Monitor and Control Humidity Levels
Start by getting a reliable hygrometer (a simple digital one costs under $20) to track your room’s humidity. If it creeps above 60%, it’s time for action. Invest in a dehumidifier for the piano room—run it during peak humid hours to pull excess moisture from the air. Pro tip: Keep the room at a steady 68-72°F to avoid rapid swings that stress the wood.
Tip 2: Position Your Piano Wisely
Location, location, location! Keep your piano away from direct sunlight and windows.  If your home was built before 1977 good rule of thumb is not have your piano on an exterior wall where heat and humidity sneak in.  Avoid placing it near air vents, radiators, or even houseplants that release extra moisture. If sunlight is unavoidable, use blackout curtains or UV-filtering shades to block those rays.  Ventilate the room gently—open windows on cooler evenings, but skip strong drafts that cause quick temperature drops.
Tip 3: Regular Maintenance and Quick Checks
Don’t wait for problems to strike—schedule a summer tune-up to catch early signs of humidity damage. Dust the keys and interior regularly with a soft cloth (no sprays!), and if you’re in a humid hotspot like the Lowcountry or Midwest, consider a protective cover for when it’s not in use. For churches with grand pianos in sanctuaries, this is especially key—those big spaces can amplify humidity issues.

By following these tips, you’ll extend your piano’s life and ensure it sounds its best for hymns, recitals, or family sing-alongs. Remember, a happy piano is a well-protected one!