Three signals that a new moisture analyzer needs to be replaced
1. Internal rattles
The internal components of the hygrometer should be firmly in place; when you hear a clicking sound while using the device, there is likely a problem. This is usually a good indication that something is cracked or loose in the device.
2. Legibility
Being able to see a clear reading on the display is an important part of the moisture meter testing process. As we discussed earlier, sometimes a drained battery can cause the screen backlight to fail or the number segments on the digital display to stop working properly.
If you replace the battery with a new, fully charged one and are still getting inaccurate readings, it may require internal repair or replacement, which may be more serious. In this case, a good option is to contact the manufacturer of the meter to resolve the issue for a good solution.
3. Not activated
A quick indicator that you should invest in a new hygrometer or that your current hygrometer needs repair is when it doesn't activate. Again, this could be due to a low/depleted battery, but if you replace the battery and it still doesn't activate, it could be due to a damaged internal component, which may require repair or replacement.
Dealing with inaccurate %MC readings
Another common sign of meter failure is a clearly incorrect %MC reading. However, incorrect readings can be as simple as testing the moisture in the material for which the meter is not calibrated.
For example, two different species of wood with the same actual %MC will show different %MC values when checked with the same meter. The readings will need to be corrected using a species correction table, or if the moisture meter has a built-in species correction, set it to the species you are testing.
