I've got nothing to add, tough the Hobo products look interesting. It could be a requirement of the warranty, and there would have to be some kind of tamper mechanism.

Do the makers of humidifiers not offer such a thing?

Might be a worthwhile invention. No interrnet connectivity is needed because, as stated, the device would only have to be reviewed upon a warranty claim.

Interesting predicament and a good idea from the builder!

This is what I ended up recommending to the builder.

[Link: logtagrecorders.com]

They are cheap and reliable from what I read. A simple look at the alert LED will let anyone know if humidity levels have fallen outside of the programmed acceptable range and a download to a PC can provide a full log.

We will see if he finds this an acceptable solution.

It's too complicated to rely on review of the data after a claim.

For that to work, the monitoring system would not only have to be tamper proof, it would have to be certified in a way that would stand up legally.

Good find. How much is it? How is it powered?

Really something that warned the client is the best solution. No home owner wants splitting trim or wood floors.

Proactive client training by the HVAC sub and review at warranty kick off.

Most of my clients have never touched the Humidity setting on their systems.

They run about $70 a piece from amazon. You do need a PC interface that runs an additional $50, but thats a one time purchase. They are battery powered, and I believe I read that the battery lasts up to 3 years. It really only has to last long enough for the warranty period (not sure how long this builders warranty period is). Also, I agree that something that alerted everyone before a problem would be the most ideal, however this is not for a high end home, and this is something the builder is going to eat the cost of just to cover himself. I did find other systems that offer text or email alerts with wifi or cellular connectivity, but price was too high for what this builder is asking for. However, it could definitely be an up-sale. [email protected] is the main one I was looking at.

I bet if the builder balanced his service call and warranty cost against a smart device he would be saving money. I would sell it a differentiator to other builders.

This is a useful feature.

I've been using an Amperic Knut to monitor my hot tub temp at a weekend place for about 6-months now and its worked great. Mobile app for iOS and Android. Batteries last about a year with normal use, and the Knut relays battery information (as well as temp) without external sensor. They also have a humidity sensor available. So for humidity, battery life, and temperature monitoring the total cost would be about $125.00.

[Link: hitekelec.com]