I am still learning about my new "cave" which is a second hand True brand beverage (merchandizer) refrigerator, about 5 ft x 3 ft x 2 ft. I am running it with additional temperature controller and humidity controller, both from Perfect Cheese. The fridge is in my garage here in sunny California near San Jose.
During the winter, I set the temperature a bit cooler (50 degrees) in order to try and have the refrigeration kick on once in a while. I removed the humidifier, and actually had to put in a couple of canisters to absorb humidity in order to bring the humidity down from 95%. I had a lot of interesting rinds this winter!! White, and red molds predominated!! There have been some really good cheeses!!
Now as it warms outside, I have bumped the temperature up to 57 degrees, trying to keep the on cycling a little less frequent. The humidifier is back in place and the canisters removed. I am having trouble maintaining anything about 80% humidity. Of course it drops lower right after the temp adjustment, but the valiant humidifier runs fairly continuously and brings it back up fairly quickly. It can get up to 85% at night. I am not putting in many new makes right now, so humidity from fresh cheese is also down. The cow is dried off and due early June.
I am worried about the summer when we will get hot. I may be having to put cheeses in containers, or vacuum seal in order to not have any cracking of the rinds.
Any suggestions for more humidity?
The climate and the challenges which you face in California are probably pretty similar to those which we have here in South Australia. In particular, cracking of hard cheeses is a problem.
I have a two week old Double Gloucester in the cave (cheese fridge) at the moment. Like you, I have difficulty keeping the humidity up high enough. This one I wrapped loosely in greaseproof paper as I was short on suitable aging containers. A couple of days ago I oiled the rind and rubbed it with salt.
So far, so good. In a few more weeks I will probably wax it.
Thanks, oiling is another idea. I have not done that in quite a while - worth another look!!