Do beads go bad?

[okieRob]

It could be the seal I suppose. The humidity is really low around here this time of year and it seems like I'm constantly adding water.

I'm working on getting getting some new beads. While I'm add it I'm going to quadruple the quantity. I was just wondering if they had an expected life span.

Thanks,
Rob

[icehog3]

Originally Posted by okieRob

It could be the seal I suppose. The humidity is really low around here this time of year and it seems like I'm constantly adding water.

I'm working on getting getting some new beads. While I'm add it I'm going to quadruple the quantity. I was just wondering if they had an expected life span.

Thanks,
Rob

They should be good indefinitely, Rob, but new beads will give you some peace of mind anyway.

One way to test the seal on thr humi is the flashlight test. Put a flashlight in the humi in a darkened room. If any light escapes from the seal area, you may have a problem.

[bobarian]

If you have really low outside Rh, then increase the amount of wet beads. Just leave 10-15% white.
I no longer wet down my beads in my Vinotemps. I just spray down the glass door a couple times a month and let the moisture absorb evenly throughout the Vino.

[eber]

Originally Posted by bobarian

If you have really low outside Rh, then increase the amount of wet beads. Just leave 10-15% white.
I no longer wet down my beads in my Vinotemps. I just spray down the glass door a couple times a month and let the moisture absorb evenly throughout the Vino.

I never thought of doing it that way but thats a good idea

[jdakine]

Originally Posted by bobarian

If you have really low outside Rh, then increase the amount of wet beads. Just leave 10-15% white.
I no longer wet down my beads in my Vinotemps. I just spray down the glass door a couple times a month and let the moisture absorb evenly throughout the Vino.

Interesting concept, what % beads and lbs do you use?

[bobarian]

Originally Posted by jdakine

Interesting concept, what % beads and lbs do you use?

I'm sorry I forgot to check back on this thread. I use two 1/2lb bags of 65% beads in each Vinotemp. I used spray down the bags occasionally, but I am lazy and find it easier to just spritz the door every couple of weeks. I only look at my hygrometers once a month or so and they are rock solid at 65

[bobarian]

I think I remember reading that you can wash the beads in warm water to get rid of the oils. Then dry them out on a baking sheet and reuse. YMMV