For a piano to last as long as possible and sound its best, it must be tuned and taken care of properly. The most important part of tuning a piano is making sure it is tuned to an A-440 reference pitch. This means that when striking the A4 key on the piano, it should match the same pitch as A4 on any other well tuned instrument.
Tuning a piano requires adjusting the tension of each individual string using a tuning hammer applied to the tuning pin related to each individual string. Approximately 233 strings on a piano (upright or grand) must be tuned to correct harmony with the reference pitch, ensuring optimal sound quality.
How often should it be tuned?
When a piano is new and has never been tuned before, it should be tuned 3 or 4 times in the first year to establish a baseline for subsequent maintenance. For pianos that have already undergone this process, tuning once or twice a year is sufficient depending on the frequency of playing.
Even if a piano is not played frequently, it still needs to be tuned at least yearly due to the high tension required to maintain the correct pitch. Uneven or low string tension can cause soundboard and bridge splits resulting in rattles and other costly side effects requiring repairs.
Where should I place it?
The environment where a piano is placed is also crucial to long-term care. Pianos should be kept away from direct sunlight, which can damage the finish. Suppose a piano is located in a high-humidity area, such as near the ocean or in a humid room. In that case, a damp chaser system is necessary. This system consists of installing one or more low-wattage heat rods in the piano with a device that detects the humidity level. When humidity is high, the controller turns the rods on, and when it's low, it turns them off. Please note, a grand piano requires a string cover as part of the system.
How do I move it?
In addition to tuning and environment control, moving a piano is another important consideration. Using a special piano dolly for each model can make the move smoother and eliminate any stress on the piano. Lifting a piano to move it can cause it to be out of tune, but moving it around on a dolly eliminates that possibility.
Maintaining a piano for optimal sound quality and longevity requires proper tuning to a reference pitch of A-440, and yearly or bi-yearly maintenance, depending on the frequency of playing. A damp chaser system is used if you live in a humid environment, like Miami Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach counties. Always use a special piano dolly for moves. By following these 3 key rules of piano care, a piano can be enjoyed for a lifetime.
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