Do I Really Need A Dry Cabinet For Camera?

Protecting camera equipment from the elements is crucial for photographers. Camera gear like lenses and camera bodies can easily get damaged from dust, moisture and impacts. This article will cover the ideal storage conditions for camera equipment, the benefits of using protective dry cabinets, considerations when selecting a dry cabinet, and recommendations for protecting your gear. Proper storage and protection is important for ensuring your expensive photography investments last a long time.

Humidity and Cameras

Humidity can negatively affect cameras and lenses in a few key ways. The most common issue is fogging, which occurs when a camera is moved from a cold environment to a warm, humid one. The temperature change causes condensation to form on the glass elements of a lens or on the mirror and sensor inside the camera body (source). This condensation scatters light and prevents the camera from operating properly until it dries.

High humidity also promotes the growth of mold and fungus inside a camera body or lens. Mold spores thrive in warm, humid environments and can get inside a camera through microscopic gaps in seals. Once inside, the spores germinate into hyphae that can etch glass and corrupt electronics. Mold can permanently damage a camera if left unchecked (source).

Finally, humidity accelerates corrosion of electronic connections inside a camera. Corrosion occurs when moisture reacts with metal electrical contacts, causing oxidation that degrades connections. Over time, corroded contacts can cause intermittent faults and total failure of camera components (source).

Ideal Storage Conditions

The ideal temperature and humidity levels for storing camera gear are essential for protecting your equipment. Excess moisture in the air can lead to fungus growth, haze on lenses, and corrosion over time. According to Sonystore.com, “An optimal humidity level is one between about 40% and 50%.” (Source). This 40-50% relative humidity (RH) range is widely recommended across photography experts and manufacturers.

Storing gear outside of this optimal zone can start causing damage in as little as 3 days. As noted on BeyondPhototips.com, “The ideal relative humidity (RH) setting for your Camera Dry Box is 40% to 50%. Do not store your camera equipment at 60% or higher for more than 3 days. At 70% relative humidity, fungus can start growing on your equipment in less than 24 hours.” (Source). Keeping humidity within the 40-50% RH sweet spot is critical.

For temperature, photography experts recommend keeping your equipment storage area around 20°C/68°F. Avoid temperature extremes and fluctuations. Overall, maintaining storage conditions at about 20°C/68°F and 40-50% RH will best protect your camera gear from moisture damage over time.

Using Dry Cabinets

A dry cabinet is a storage device designed specifically to protect cameras and lenses from dust, moisture, and humidity (Ruggard). Dry cabinets maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, usually around 20-30% RH, through the use of an integrated dehumidifying system (Reddit).

The cabinets are constructed with an airtight seal and often made of materials like aluminum or wood. Inside, desiccant materials or electric dehumidifiers absorb excess moisture from the air. Some models have hygrometers built in to monitor the interior humidity level. The stable, controlled environment protects cameras, lenses, and other photography gear from fungal growth, dust accumulation, and corrosion that can occur with changes in temperature and humidity.

By storing equipment in a dry cabinet, photographers can prolong the life of their investments and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacement due to environmental damage over time.

Benefits of Dry Cabinets

Using dry cabinets provides several key benefits for storing cameras and other photography equipment:

Protect from humidity – Dry cabinets maintain a stable, low humidity environment. Excess moisture can cause corrosion, fungus growth, and other damage to camera gear over time. Keeping items in a regulated dry cabinet prevents issues caused by humidity fluctuations.

Prevent damage and deterioration – In addition to moisture protection, dry cabinets filter out dust, gases, and pollutants that can degrade camera sensors and lenses. Storing equipment in a contaminant-free space keeps your investment protected.

Extend gear lifespan – By providing ideal stable conditions and protecting from humidity, dust, and pollutants, a dry cabinet can significantly extend the usable lifespan of cameras, lenses, and accessories. This allows you to use your equipment reliably for many years with less need for service or replacement.

Considerations

When deciding if you need a dry cabinet for your camera equipment, there are several key factors to consider:

Size Needed: Determine what size dry cabinet you require based on the amount of equipment you plan to store. Consider both the number and physical size of lenses, camera bodies, flashes, etc. A cabinet that is too small may not properly fit all your gear. Select a size that allows adequate space and proper airflow.

Cost: Dry cabinets range widely in price from around $100 to over $1000 depending on size, construction, and features. Consider your budget but also keep in mind that a quality dry cabinet is a long-term investment to protect expensive gear.

Dehumidifier Maintenance: Most dry cabinets use electric dehumidifiers that need occasional maintenance. The dehumidifying unit may need to be periodically cleaned or have the desiccant beads replaced. This is usually a fairly simple process but should be factored in [1].

Energy Use: Larger dry cabinets with powerful dehumidifiers can consume significant electricity. Estimate the operating costs based on your local energy prices.

Alternative Storage: Also think about whether viable lower-cost alternatives could meet your needs, like sealing equipment in air-tight plastic containers with desiccant packs [2].

Alternatives

While dry cabinets are a convenient and effective way to store cameras and lenses, there are some lower cost alternatives that can help protect your gear from humidity at home. Many photographers use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel to create safer storage environments.

Silica gel packets and containers designed for camera storage can be purchased in various sizes. Placing them in your camera bag or storage boxes helps maintain lower humidity levels that reduce the risk of condensation or fungal growth (according to this dpreview forum discussion). Rechargeable silica gel products allow the beads to be dried in the oven and reused over and over.

Some cameras and lenses also come with silica gel packets from the manufacturer to toss in your bag. While they aren’t as powerful as a full dry cabinet, these inexpensive preventative measures can extend the life of your equipment. Just be sure to monitor humidity levels and replace the gel as needed.

Recommendations

When considering whether you need a dry cabinet for your camera equipment, here are some recommendations to keep in mind:

A dry cabinet may be recommended if you live in an area with high humidity levels that fluctuate throughout the year. Places near large bodies of water or tropical climates are especially prone to humidity changes that can cause condensation inside your camera equipment. Storing gear in a dry cabinet with desiccant packs can help regulate humidity levels and prevent moisture damage.

You likely do not need a dry cabinet if you live in an area with relatively stable, low humidity. Arid desert regions or places with dry winters have consistent humidity levels that pose little risk of condensation inside cameras and lenses. Simply storing equipment in a clean, sealed case or bag should suffice.

For those living in moderate or transitional climates, a dry cabinet could be beneficial during humid summer months when the air contains more moisture. Alternately, you could use desiccant packs inside your regular camera bags when humidity spikes.

In general, you should use common sense based on your local climate. If humidity is a frequent issue, invest in a dry cabinet for safe camera storage. Otherwise, less expensive solutions like sealed cases with desiccants can provide adequate protection.

Examples

Here are brief reviews of some popular dry cabinet models for storing cameras:

The Ruggard Electronic Dry Cabinet 18L features an electronic dehumidifying system to maintain 35-45% relative humidity. It can hold 1-2 DSLR bodies with lenses attached plus accessories. Many reviewers praise its affordable price, compact size, and effective moisture control.

For more storage capacity, the Ruggard Electronic Dry Cabinet 30L provides 11 x 14 x 8 inches of interior space. It has the same electronic dehumidifying system but a larger capacity for multiple camera bodies, lenses, and accessories.

The TAP 38L Dry Cabinet is a top choice for serious hobbyists and professionals. With adjustable humidity between 35-45%, it protects valuable gear from moisture, dust, and dirt. Reviewers praise the stainless steel construction.

Overall, Ruggard and TAP dry cabinets are well-reviewed and recommended for their reliable performance. Consider factors like capacity, budget, and features like electronic humidity control.

Conclusion

In summary, proper storage of your camera equipment is crucial to maintaining its functionality and extending its lifespan. Exposing your camera gear to excess moisture can lead to corrosion, fungus growth, and mechanical failure over time. Using a dry cabinet provides an effective way to store cameras and lenses in a low-humidity, stabilized environment.

The key benefits of a dry cabinet include protecting against dust, keeping moisture low, providing stable temperatures, and creating ideal conditions for long-term storage. While dry cabinets do require an upfront investment, they can pay off by keeping your equipment working properly for years to come. With options at various price points and sizes, you can likely find a dry cabinet solution that fits your needs and budget.

By taking the time to properly store your cameras, lenses, and accessories in a dry cabinet, you can avoid expensive damage repairs down the road. Given the value of photographic gear, a dry cabinet is a worthwhile investment to protect your equipment for the long haul.