Storing firearms and other weapons is part of being a responsible owner, however, what about your equipment that has been stored for an extended period of time? Is it safe from damage including rust, corrosion or just stop working all together?
Should you use a gun safe dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier should be used in areas with high moisture contents and for long term storage. A gun safe dehumidifier can protect your firearms and other valuables from damage including rust and corrosion from mold and excessive moisture.
A dehumidifier in your gun safe can solve a number of these problems.
A dehumidifier needs to be the correct one for the size of gun safe. Also, the dehumidifier needs to be installed correctly.
In this article, we will show you how to install a dehumidifier correctly for your gun safe.
How Many Dehumidifiers Should You Use?
The number of dehumidifiers for your gun safe is determined by the size. Depending on your requirements, you may only require one. If you have a large safe with a lot of guns, you might want to use two or more dehumidifiers.
If you want to measure the humidity in your safe, make sure it’s empty first, then take another measurement after you’ve installed one model. After you have placed your valuables and shooting equipment, you will know how many gun safe dehumidifiers you require.
How to organize Your Gun Safe to reduce moisture?
The location of your dehumidifier is only part of the solution. There’s also the issue of allowing air to flow through the contents of the safe.
Ideally, you should make sure that the guns are evenly spaced. This may be difficult if you have a large number of guns and your safe isn’t particularly large.
On the other hand, if you have a large, relatively empty safe, this will be much easier. Of course, if you haven’t already chosen a safe, you might choose one that is larger than you really need.
This will allow enough space for air to flow through your firearms.
Silica Gel Dehumidifier vs Rod Dehumidifier for a Gun Safe
Silica gel dehumidifiers and rod dehumidifiers are the two most common types of dehumidifiers to use inside gun safes.
Both types of dehumidifiers make your gun safe drier. Both have advantages and disadvantages in using them in your gun safe.
Advantages of the Silica Gel Dehumidifier for Your Gun Safe
The gel models are non-electric and can be placed anywhere within the safe. They then begin the process of absorbing any moisture in the air.
This is similar to the little gel packs that are used to keep things like shoes dry while they are in their boxes.
Where to put silica gel dehumidifer in your gun safe?
Silica gel dehumidifiers work wherever you put them in the gun safe.
Usually you will want a few of the silica gel models and are especially good for under bed safes and car safes.
Advantages of the Rod Dehumidifier for Your Gun Safe
Rod dehumidifiers are electric devices that heat the air inside gun safes.
The rod functions similarly to a silica gel dehumidifier, except it removes moisture more effectively and protects the gun from damage.
Where to put a rod dehumidifier in your gun safe?
A rod works best placed on the gun safe floor because it allows hot air to rise and absorb humidity from the air inside the gun safe.
The other consideration is power. Check your safe to see where to connect the rod dehumidifier.
Gun Safe Rod Dehumidifier Safety Precautions Before Installation
Here are some things you should know before purchasing a dehumidifier for your gun safe.
- Indoor use only – not intended for outdoor use.
- Do not use a damaged dehumidifier especially the cord.
- Do not immerse in water or use around water.
- Do not use with other flammable products, fumes or explosives.
- Use manufacture plug and device only – do not modify it.
- Install only while the unit is unplugged.
How to Install A Dehumidifier Rod in a Gun Safe
Gun owners often use the rod dehumidifier due to their ability to remove moisture and prevent oxidation of their equipment. The rod vents the heat out along with the moisture, which rises up with the air. Rod-type models are easy to install. Below are the instructions:
- Ensure good airflow between your guns, weapons or other items in the safe.
- Disconnect the rod from the electric cord.
- Rod should be installed near the bottom or floor of the safe near the front.
- Connect the electric cord to the rod through the hole in the safe – usually in the back of the safe.
- (if your safe does not have a hole) Drill a hole for the cord in the safe. See your manufcture for more information about making a hole in your safe.
- Once turned on, the rod should work.
- Make sure to check on the safe including the dehumidifier to make sure everything is in good working order.
FAQs about How to Install a Dehumidifier in a Gun Safe
What should my gun safe humidity level be?
A gun safe should be between 30%-50% humidity at 68-70 degrees or room temperature according to the NRA. This humidity and temperature level is the ideal storage conditions for your firearms to prevent rust, corrosion and other damage.
Can my gun safe be too dry?
Yes, firearms, especially gun stocks can have issues if the air becomes less than 20% humidity. If you live in a dry area, test your gun safe’s humidity levels.