Protecting your piano: A Guide

Why Humidity Control Matters

An acoustic piano is a precision musical instrument constructed primarily from wood. Because wood naturally absorbs and releases moisture from the surrounding air, environmental conditions directly affect the piano's structural integrity and musical

performance.


Among all piano components, the soundboard is particularly sensitive to changes in humidity. When humidity levels become too low, the soundboard may shrink. Over time, this can lead to visible cracks, pressure ridges, tuning instability, and other performance-related concerns. Conversely, excessive humidity can also negatively affect regulation, tuning stability, and overall playability. Avoid placing pianos near air intake or outlet vents, windows, baseboard heaters, or any area where temperature and humidity levels fluctuate significantly.


For this reason, maintaining proper humidity is one of the most important steps you can take to protect piano inventory and preserve long-term value.

Recommended Environmental Conditions

Yamaha Corporation of America (Yamaha") recommends maintaining a 50% relative humidity (RH) environment for pianos in the U.S. market and avoiding sudden or extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity. This recommendation applies to all Yamaha Acoustic Grand and Upright Pianos, Disklavier®, Silent®, TransAcoustic®, AvantGrand® and Bösendorfer® Pianos.


Maintaining a stable environment within this range helps protect the piano's

soundboard and other wooden components from unnecessary expansion and

contraction.

Best Practices


✔ Monitor humidity levels daily

✔ Maintain consistent year-round conditions

✔ Avoid placing pianos near HVAC vents, exterior doors, or direct sunlight

✔ Use commercial-grade humidity control equipment when necessary

✔ Install multiple hygrometers near your piano


The Cost of Inaction


• Soundboard shrinkage

• Visible soundboard cracks

• Reduced tonal quality

• Tuning instability

• Changes in touch and regulation

• Decreased value

• Increased service and transportation costs