Dampp-chaser Service

With a Dampp-chaser humidity control system, little maintenance is required of the owner. Make sure the system stays plugged in to an un-switched outlet and that it does not get disconnected when the room is being cleaned. A steady green LDC light confirms that the system has electricity.

The humidification part of the Dampp-chaser needs to be watered every two or three weeks (by a can provided at installation through a tube attached under the rim), with a cap of Pad Treatment (also provided) added to keep it clean. A blinking yellow LDC light warns if the water level is low. Add one can. If the system goes completely dry, a red light will blink and the humidification part of the system will shut itself off until water is replenished.

There are two reasons why this can happen. The first is that the Dampp-chaser simply wasn't watered in time. Add one can as usual to correct this situation. If the red light doesn't eventually stop flashing (it may be delayed a little as the water wicks up the dry pads), call for a service. Because minerals are left behind when water evaporates to provide humidity, the pads in the system gradually clog and eventually cannot wick the water called for by the humidistat.

We advise servicing the Dampp-chaser each fall when we come to tune. We charge one half hour's fee, which includes changing the pads, cleaning as needed, and a new bottle of the Pad Treatment additive. Then the humidification part of the system is at its best when your piano needs it most.