Ford Piano Inc. : Piano FAQ

Piano FAQ

Technical Questions:
Q.	How often should my piano be tuned?
A.	It is recommended that you tune your piano at least once a year, with twice being more desirable. Pianos are tuned to the frequency A-440. If you would like to schedule a tuning, please call us at (914) 739-1224.
Q.	Why should I have my piano rebuilt when I can purchase a new one fairly inexpensively?
A.	The quality of the rebuilt one may be better then the quality of the new one. The value of the rebuilt piano will depreciate much less over time, as compared to the value of the new piano.
Q.	What does "regulation" mean?
A.	Regulation means making every key feel even and the same, up and down the keyboard.
Q.	My piano does not hold a tuning very well. Why?
A.	Usually that is an indication of a bad tuning pinblock. A qualified piano technician needs to examine the piano to determine the condition of the pinblock. The piano may need to be rebuilt at this point.
Environmental Questions:
Q.	How does temperature effect my piano?
A.	Pianos can be damaged by extreme heat, and extreme cold. The perfect temperature for a piano is "room temperature", between 64 - 74 degrees F.
Q.	Where is the best place to keep my piano?
A.	Ideally you should avoid exposure to direct sunlight. If there is a window near the piano, it is recommended that you purchase a shade or a curtain. Also avoid keeping the piano next to heater vents, AC vents, radiators, fireplaces, or anything that could drastically change the climate.
Q.	What should the humidity level be in my house?
A.	Drastic humidity changes as well as extreme humidity could be harmful to your piano. Depending on where you live, the humidity range can vary. In dryer climates it is a good idea to have a humidifier, while in tropical or more humid climates, damp chasers or de-humidifiers are also a good idea.
Caring Questions:
Q.	How do I clean the case, or furniture part of my piano?
A.	If the piano is only dusty, you can use a 100% cotton cloth to dust it, just make sure that you go with the grain, and not against it. If there are fingerprints or blemishes on the piano, use your 100% cotton cloth and a small amount of furniture polish. Make sure to spray on the cloth, not directly onto the piano
Q.	How do I clean the keys on my piano?
A.	Again with a 100% cotton cloth, this time lightly dampened, apply a small to medium amount of Ivory soap and squeeze out the rag as much as possible. Clean about an octave at a time, and dry the octave after cleaning. Make sure to remove any excess soap that may be left there.
Tips:
1.	Avoid placing drinks, vases, liquids, or anything heavy on the piano. If you are having a party, it is a good idea to prop the top up to avoid this. Anything that is on your piano should have a soft cloth underneath it as well.