25-30 years might be a good average for a number of reasons. However, there is one variable that makes all the difference in Southern California: The use of distilled water. There is no faster way to cause the demise of a System than to disrespect the long term benefits of distilled water. Part of the replacement average includes: How much time is spent cleaning/treating & replacing small parts? And, prematurely cleaning the humidifier tank, replacing the humidifier rod sleeve and pads due to mineral deposits only to find the screws holding the humidifier heat rod have rusted through. At that point with that tank and system what is the best use of time and money:
1. Is a new tank ordered
2. Is a new humidity side of the System replaced with updated parts including humidistat and light senor
3. Is a completely new System ordered and the usable old parts saved
The best use of time and money in the long run is a consideration: Is it less time and money to replace the humidity tank, humidistat and light sensor? Then deal with the dehumidifiers as they intermittently go out and are found? Or, go with the known time, expense and peace of mind that comes with installing a new System. Depending, there is value in all of these options.
Not mentioned but germane to this subject is the Under-cover. 12 years ago at Soka University, Aliso Viejo, Ca., 11 systems were installed in practice rooms, teaching studios and two classrooms: 7 grands, 5 uprights, each with a string cover. The pianos are tuned 4 times per year. The systems, with their string covers, were disappointing: the pianos acted like instruments that needed systems until the under-covers and back-covers were installed. I took my lead from David Reed, RPT under-covers were installed at his bold insistence. The difference continues to be dramatic.
Slowing the rate of air exchange under and around the pianos has made a very positive difference. As C-19 regulations increased the number of room air exchanges per hour the pianos continue to remain in significantly better tune by a wide margin. Depending on the year, the Fall and Spring weather can have warm, dry winds. When these conditions are profound all bets are off but generally: The use of Under Covers with the Piano Life Saver Systems and string covers makes for very stable pianos.
Ed Whitting, RPT
Professional Products & Services, Inc.
24392 Peacock Street, Lake Forest, California 92630
Cell 714-501-4717, Office 949-830-6847, FAX 949-830-1392