The life of moisture meters is affected by several factors
Extreme temperature
Although most hygrometers should work properly at "normal" indoor temperatures, they require a specially designed hygrometer to withstand the effects of temperatures below freezing or above the boiling point of water. For example, a thermometer exposed to temperatures below -4 ° F or above 140 ° F will begin to return incorrect readings.
If there is no humidity meter specifically designed for extreme temperatures of high or low temperatures for a long time, it will not only reduce the accuracy of woodworking readings, but also cause persistent damage to the electronic components of the instrument, leading to long-term failure.
Exposure to moisture
Ironically, prolonged exposure to excessive moisture can actually cause damage to the hygrometer. This kind of damage can manifest in various ways, such as corrosion on the contact components of the hygrometer (such as the pins of the needle type instrument) or internal circuit faults of the instrument itself.
Anyone who puts a phone in a swimming pool or other water body can tell you that moisture and sensitive electronic devices cannot get along well. However, you do not need to put electronic products in water to expose them to excessive moisture. Placing the instrument in a damp environment, such as burying it in a bag under damp work clothes, can cause damage over time, just like throwing it into water.
Damage caused by incorrect handling
Although woodworking moisture meters are usually constructed as sturdy and durable long-term tools, improper on-site operation is still the main reason for the failure of these devices. This does not mean that such events are the fault of the user; Accidents have indeed occurred, such as instruments falling onto hard surfaces or into buckets.
However, taking preventive measures to avoid misoperation of instruments can greatly help prevent instrument malfunctions. For example, you can prevent accidents by firmly grasping the instrument and handing it over to colleagues who need to borrow it instead of throwing it into the room. Wearing gloves with grip surfaces instead of gloves with smooth surfaces can also make it easier to avoid accidental dropping of the moisture meter during use.
Like any electronic product, a hygrometer will last longer when handled with care.
