Issues Created by Mixing Humidification Methods

Mixing the two humidification methods in the hope of better results for your humidor may completely ruin the humidity levels. Although effective when used alone, both methods adversely affect each other’s functionality. Below are the drawbacks of using both methods simultaneously.  

The Humidifier Will Constantly Release Moisture

Using the cigar humidifier and the Boveda packs simultaneously will not help; it will adversely affect the cigars. The Boveda pack works two ways: releasing moisture when it’s outside the ideal range and absorbing moisture when there’s excess. 

This working principle of the Boveda packs causes the humidifier to run continuously, releasing moisture that is absorbed by the Boveda packs, which then releases it again to balance the level. The cycle will ruin the working and lifespan of both the humidifier and the Boveda packs.

Ruined Boveda Packs

The Boveda packs will be ruined, and their lifespan will be shortened. A Boveda pack’s normal functional life falls between 2 and 4 months, depending greatly on the number of cigars. Using it alongside the humidifier will keep it running nonstop at its maximum capacity, so that it will last only a few weeks. 

Moreover, continuous exposure to moisture emitted by the humidifier will cause the Boveda packs to fill with water, rendering the solution ineffective.

Inconsistent Humidity 

The humidity inside the humidor or the cabinet will be inconsistent. The continuous emission of moisture and the Boveda pack’s response by absorbing it can cause many ups and downs in the relative humidity level, until the pack becomes fully saturated and can’t absorb any more moisture, resulting in a spike in humidity.

Ruined Cigars

Inconsistent humidity levels will ruin the cigars and, in extreme cases, can cause them to rot. The constant ups and downs in humidity also affect the burning performance of cigars, as well as their aroma and flavor.

Greater chances are that the cigars kept near the Boveda packs are sometimes too dry, and those near the humidifier can be too wet. Not only does it affect the flavor of the cigar, but it can also irritate the throat.

Risk of Mold

The risk of mold is greater, not less, when two humidification methods are used. The instant emission of humidity by the humidifier and the limited absorbance by the Boveda packs cause spikes in humidity many times.

This, in turn, causes the cigars to develop mold and fungus due to the increased dampness. It makes the cigar a waste for the user, as it lacks essence and flavor and can sometimes pose health risks.

Solutions

Given below are some of the solutions that can actually yield better performance and help you decide on the needed humidification method. 

We have discussed the limitations and scenarios as to where to use which method, and where it is not applicable. Although the effectiveness of the Boveda packs is not a new thing, it has its own limitations when it comes to commercial humidors and cabinets. 

The commercial setups need a strong, reliable, and stress-free centralized system that delivers a consistent humidity level to all the cigars.

Use Either Solely

The best solution to avoid the above-mentioned cons of using multiple humidification techniques is to use a single method. Both methods provide complete coverage in regulating the humidity level of the humidor. 

The only difference is the type of technique and technology. A large-scale setup of cigars, like walk-in humidors or cigar lockers, in clubs and hotels will obviously require an advanced, up-to-date, hassle-free method that can fully cover the entire space. 

On the other hand, a small portable humidor or a medium-sized cabinet can do well with the Boveda packs. With either method you choose, just remember to stick to that one.

Quantity of the Cigars

The choice of humidification method is greatly affected by the number of cigars. If you are collecting cigars for personal use or for aging, and the collection is not so vast, the Boveda packs are the perfect pick for you. The only limitation is that you need to check them for oversaturation and not forget to replace them every 2-4 months.

In the case of a vast cigar collection or commercial use, it’s advisable to use electric cigar humidifiers designed to cover large spaces and offer an effortless option that requires only water refills and minimal maintenance.

Consider Weather Conditions

In places with severe, dry, and freezing winters, Boveda packs will completely dry out and be unable to maintain the required humidity level. On the other hand, cigar humidifiers can operate even in cold weather and normalize humidity levels within minutes.

It must also be noted that Boveda packs take time to regulate humidity. If the cabinet is frequently opened, it takes longer to maintain the required level than with a humidifier. The humidifier regulates humidity within minutes, even after frequent cabinet openings. 

Conclusion 

The selection of the humidification method is solely your decision and must be made carefully, taking into account all the pros and cons. Whatever method you find reliable for your needs must not be accompanied by any other alternative. Trying a Boveda pack with a cigar humidifier simply messes with the humidifier’s operation and won’t yield any meaningful results.