FAQ's

Why should I have my piano tuned?

• Improved pitch accuracy: Notes sound at the correct pitch, so pieces and ensembles are in tune.

• Better tone quality: Tuning reduces dissonant beats and clarifies harmonic balance.

• Consistent touch and response: Proper tension stabilizes action behavior, aiding control and expression.

• Prolonged instrument life: Regular tuning highlights and prevents issues (loose pins, bridge problems, string wear) before they worsen.

• More reliable performance: Reduces surprises during practice, lessons, or concerts.

• Easier and cheaper long-term maintenance: Small, regular tunings prevent larger repairs like full restringing or pinblock work.

• Improved tuning stability after moves or temperature/humidity changes: Frequent tunings help strings settle and adapt to new conditions.

How often should my piano be tuned?

• New Pianos: Tune 3-4 times in the first year to help strings settle.

• Home Pianos: Tune once or twice a year, typically every 6-12 months.

• Older or Used Pianos: May require more frequent tuning, especially if not well-maintained.

• Professional Use: Pianos used for lessons or performances may need tuning every 6 months or more.

What is Piano Regulation?

Piano regulation is the process of adjusting the mechanical components of a piano to ensure they function properly and uniformly. This involves fine-tuning the action, which includes thousands of moving parts that translate key presses into sound. Over time, these parts can wear down or become misaligned, affecting the piano's performance.

How often should my piano be regulated?

• Light use: Every 3–5 years.

• Professional or heavy use: Annually or more.

• After a rebuild or major repair Always regulated before delivery.

• A new piano often needs regulation after the first year as parts settle.

Where should I keep my piano?

Place your piano where temperature and humidity are stable, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and exterior walls or windows. Key guidelines:

• Temperature: keep around 18–24°C (65–75°F).

• Humidity: aim for 40–55% relative humidity; avoid wide fluctuations.

• Avoid: direct sunlight, radiators/vents, fireplaces, exterior walls, doors that open to outside, and rooms with frequent large temperature/humidity swings (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms).

• Positioning: leave a few inches of air space behind an upright; for grands, allow room around the instrument for airflow and technician access. Don’t place heavy objects on the piano or on its lid long-term.

• Long-term protection: consider a humidifier/dehumidifier or a piano-specific humidity control system (e.g., Dampp-Chaser) if your home’s humidity varies seasonally.

• Flooring: solid, level floor; use caster cups to protect soft flooring and stabilize movement.

Contact us for advice

If you have a question about caring for your piano, drop us a message using the form below or via email: info@joshuakasselpianos.com.au