How to Take Care of Your Piano

September 27, 2023

How to Take Care of Your Piano

When you invest in owning an acoustic piano, properly taking care of your instrument is key. A well-maintained piano will last longer, sound better, and look more attractive. Here are some tips on how to take care of your piano.

Keep your piano tuned regularly

Piano tuning is essential for maintaining the quality and accuracy of the sound. Piano manufacturers recommend four initial tunings during the first year in service, and two times per year thereafter. A professional piano tuner should perform the tuning using specialized tools and skills.

Keep your piano away from extreme temperatures and humidity

Piano parts are mostly made of wood, metal, and ivory, which are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Extreme heat or cold can cause the wood to expand or contract, affecting the soundboard, bridges, keys, and case. High or low humidity can cause the metal to rust or corrode, affecting the strings, tuning pins, and action. These changes can damage the structure and function of the piano.

To prevent these problems, you should place your piano against an inner wall, away from sunlight, moisture, and air currents. You should also try to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level inside the room where your piano is placed. You can use a thermometer, a hygrometer, or a humidity control system to monitor and regulate the conditions.

Keep your piano clean and dust-free

Piano cleaning is the process of removing dust, dirt, stains, fingerprints, and other contaminants from the surface and interior of the piano. Piano cleaning is important for preserving the appearance and hygiene of the piano. Dust can be abrasive and scratch the finish or clog the action. Dirt or stains can discolor or damage the keys or case.

To clean your piano properly, you should:

• Dust regularly with a duster or soft cloth.
• Wipe down keys with a damp (not wet) cloth.
• Protect the finish with the correct polish.
• Remove dust inside the piano with a vacuum.
• Cover the keys when not in use.
• Never place drinks or plants on the piano.
• Never set objects directly on the piano.

Keep your piano in good working order

Piano regulation is the process of adjusting the action parts to ensure the optimal performance and responsiveness of the piano. Piano regulation is necessary for maintaining the touch and feel of the piano. Over time, the action parts can wear out, loosen, or break, affecting the speed, power, and accuracy of the keys.

To regulate your piano properly, you should:

• Ask your technician to do a minor touch-up regulation at each tuning.
• Have a full regulation done every 2 to 5 years.
• Do not touch the inner workings of your piano yourself.
• Play your piano regularly to notice any problems.

Conclusion

Owning a piano can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Pianos can improve your mental and physical health, enrich your social and cultural life, and express your personality and creativity. However, owning a piano also requires proper care and maintenance. You should keep your piano tuned, clean, regulated, and protected from harmful environmental factors. By following these tips, you can enjoy your piano for many years to come.

Chat with our experienced piano sales team about properly caring for your new piano! 

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