Are you curious to know why humidity and moisture inside your pistol safe is such a big deal? If yes! then let’s take a look to learn about moisture’s effect and how can we get rid of it.
Most of the new handgun safe owners don’t realize they might need to manage humidity inside their safe. It would be easy to think for them, “Hey, it’s just a secure box for my guns—what’s the big deal?” However, the matter of concern is that most places in the U.S. have an average humidity level of over 50%. Living in an area with a climate-controlled system might help keep the air dry, but that’s not the case for many safe owners. They often struggle to keep valuables dry enough in their firearm safe in these humid areas.
Want to know what role can moisture play?
The moisture that buildup inside your handgun safe is a matter of concern for you as it can rust metal parts, damage the finish of the safe as well as the pistols kept inside the safe, and even shorten the life of your firearms. To avoid this condition, there are a few simple ways to keep your handgun safe dry, and your weapons in the best condition. Let’s take a look into some easy steps to control moisture and keep your collection safe from humidity damage.
1. Why Moisture is a Silent Threat Inside Your Safe ?
Handgun safes are designed with airtight barriers that can trap moisture inside. This means that when you open your safe, some stored humidity can escape into your home or workplace. Additionally, if the safe has been closed for a while, the interior walls may develop condensation, especially in environments with high humidity outside.
Moisture buildup inside your pistol safe might seem harmless, but with time, it can lead to serious issues like rust and corrosion on your firearms. Pistol Safes are crafted to protect your valuables securely, yet they are not completely airtight, which means any existing moisture gets trapped inside the safe. Even a minimal amount of humidity can slowly eat away the metal parts of the safe, causing gradual but lasting damage to your safe.
Iron and steel begin to rust around 86°F and will destroy your weapon at 122°F or above. Once the temperature in your safe hits these levels and the moisture rises above 70%, the weapons will start to deteriorate within a week. Your stainless steel weapons will begin to corrode in four days if the temperature is beyond 86 °F! Steel corrosion costs Americans more than $400 billion annually, according to the American Galvanizers Association (AGA).
To protect your firearms from rust and corrosion, managing the humidity level inside your pistol safe is essential
2. Where to Place Your Safe for Maximum Protection ?
Location is key for any handgun safe. If you store your pistol safe in humid areas like basements or garages, this can increase the risk of moisture buildup. Instead of these places, look for a room with steady temperatures and lower humidity, for example, an upstairs closet, which can provide a more stable, dry environment for your safe and its contents.
3. How to Keep Humidity Out of Your Pistol Safe ?
You don’t need to be an expert or a scientist to protect your firearms from rust and corrosion and protect your weapon from deteriorating. Here are three easy ways to keep humidity away from your handgun safe.
a. Electric and Non-Electric Dehumidifiers
Electric Dehumidifiers
One of the best ways to reduce moisture in your gun safe is to use an electric dehumidifier. These devices plug into a power outlet and help lower the humidity inside the safe. They have heating elements that circulate air and keep the temperature steady, which helps stop condensation from forming.
When you set up these devices, these dehumidifiers warm the air slightly, keeping the inside of the safe about 3 degrees warmer than the outside temperature. This helps to prevent moisture buildup inside the safe as well as outside. To install this device, just mount it on the wall, run the detectable cord through a small hole in the back of the safe, and plug it in. Electric dehumidifiers can be more expensive, but many rechargeable types of dehumidifiers last up to ten years and let you know in their display when they need to be recharged.
Non-Electric Dehumidifiers
If you want a simpler option, then non-electric dehumidifiers are a good choice. They don’t need electricity or a battery to run. These are usually made from materials like silica gel that naturally absorb the moisture inside the safe. They are generally cheaper and easier to use than electric ones, and you don’t need to install them.
When choosing a dehumidifier, always consider the size of your safe and how much moisture it can handle. This will help you choose the right size dehumidifiers for your safe.
b. Using Dry Rice
Dry rice is an easy and effective way to absorb moisture. Rice acts as a natural dehumidifier, which means it can soak up humidity from the air around it. To use this method, simply put a bowl of dry rice inside your handgun safe.
Make sure to check the rice every four months and replace it with fresh rice. This will keep it effective at absorbing moisture. By doing this, you’ll able to manage the humidity levels inside your safe, which is important for protecting your handgun and keeping them in good condition. Keeping moisture in check prevents rust and corrosion, ensuring your pistols are ready to use whenever you need them. Also, using dry rice is a cost-effective and hassle-free solution that doesn’t require any special tools or devices.
c. Silica Gel Packets
Silica gel packets are a cost-effective option for managing moisture in your handgun safe. These small packets are filled with tiny beads that absorb humidity and water vapor from the air. To use them, simply place a few packets inside your gun safe that will help to keep the environment dry inside the safe.
In a pistol safe, three silica packs can be effective. However, it’s important to ensure that the silica gel packets do not come into direct contact with your firearms, as this may affect their condition.
In short, there are several ways to keep humidity levels low in your firearm safe. You can use electric or non-electric dehumidifiers, dry rice, or silica gel packets. Each of these options can help reduce moisture, which is crucial for extending the life of your firearms. By keeping humidity in check, you ensure that your handguns are in good working condition and are ready to use whenever you need them.
Take some time to consider which method works best for you and your budget. Whether you choose a dehumidifier, rice, or silica gel, managing the humidity level inside your safe is an essential step in protecting your valuable firearms
4. Protecting Your Firearms Directly
Using protective gun oil on your firearms is an effective way to keep them away from moisture. After cleaning your weapons, apply a light coat of quality gun oil to the metal surfaces. This creates a barrier that helps prevent rust and corrosion.
Always choose a rust-resistant gun oil that is safe for long-term storage and specifically designed for firearms. To apply, use a clean cloth or soft applicator and gently wipe the oil onto the metal parts, making sure it covers the whole area of the pistols without making them over-greasy. This will add a layer of protection against moisture.
5. Regularly Checking and Cleaning Your Safe
Make a habit of checking your gun safe every few weeks. Notice any signs of rust or moisture buildup, and wipe down the interior of the safe with a dry cloth if you find any wetness.
While you are checking the safe, Do a quick inspection of your firearms, especially if you have not used them for a while. Look for any rust or damage on the metal surfaces.
By regularly inspecting your safe and weapons, you can catch potential issues early and protect your handguns from moisture damage. Routine cleaning not only helps prevent corrosion but also ensures your pistols are always ready when you need them.
CONCLUSION
Protecting your pistol safe from moisture and humidity is not that difficult. With the right tools, careful attention, and regular inspection, you can protect your handgun safe from moisture and protect your firearms from the potential damage of corrosion and rust. The above various methods of dehumidifiers we discussed to keep the air dry will help you to make sure that your safe is free from moisture and that your pistols are always ready to use when you need them.
