Why Art Galleries Need Precise Humidity Control: Protecting Collections with Fairland and Hale

Art galleries are sanctuaries of culture and creativity — but they are incredibly vulnerable to environmental conditions, particularly humidity. Whether too high or too low, humidity can silently damage paintings, sculptures, and paper-based works, threatening their longevity and value.

That’s why South Africa’s leading galleries trust advanced dehumidifiers and humidifiers from Solenco — including our Fairland Dehumidifiers and Hale Humidifiers — to protect and preserve priceless collections.

Why Humidity Matters in Art Galleries

Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. Artworks made from canvas, wood, paper, and other organic materials are highly sensitive to moisture changes. The ideal relative humidity (RH) for galleries is between 45% and 55%, with as little fluctuation as possible.

• High Humidity Risks:
  • Mould growth on canvases and paper
  • Swelling and warping of canvas and wood
  • Corrosion in metal sculptures
  • Flaking paint and discolouration
• Low Humidity Risks:
  • Cracking and shrinking of materials
  • Brittle, fragile paper
  • Failure of adhesives in frames and collages

Gallery Climate Control with Fairland & Hale

Fairland Dehumidifiers: Advanced Moisture Control

Fairland’s dehumidifiers are engineered for precise humidity management in sensitive spaces:

• Maintain stable RH with precision sensors and automatic controls
• Quiet, energy-efficient operation — perfect for gallery settings
• Continuous monitoring and remote access for peace of mind
• Ideal for both exhibition and storage spaces, especially in coastal or humid climates

Hale Humidifiers: Gentle Rehydration for Dry Conditions

When humidity drops too low (often in winter or air-conditioned spaces), Hale Humidifiers restore moisture safely and evenly:

• Even, consistent moisture delivery to prevent cracking and brittleness
• Built-in hygrostats automatically maintain the ideal RH
• Top-fill and plumbed-in models for flexibility and convenience
• Whisper-quiet operation to preserve the gallery ambiance

Best Practices for Gallery Climate Control

• Use digital RH and temperature sensors throughout display and storage areas
• Employ sealed display cases to create microclimates for delicate works
• Ensure proper insulation to prevent moisture ingress or loss
• Regularly service HVAC, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers for peak performance

Explore our full range of dehumidifiers and humidifiers for professional climate control.

Conclusion

Humidity is a silent threat to priceless works of art. The key to art preservation lies in achieving balance and stability. With Fairland Dehumidifiers preventing excess moisture and Hale Humidifiers protecting against dryness, South African galleries and collectors can ensure that their collections are preserved for generations to come.

Contact Solenco for expert advice on gallery climate control — and protect your collection with confidence.