I'm a recent transplant from southern California, now living in Rhode Island. Would appreciate any advice on taking care of my instruments here in the New England area. Winters here much different than Calif. Thanks, Howie
When heat is on, just keep them in cases with humidifiers. In summer, I don't do anything. Even when AC is on, humidity is usually in the 40s/50s at minimum. But, even in summer, not a bad idea to keep in cases, although not mandatory, like in winter.
I'm not too far from you in CT, as previously stated, when the heat is on and it is very cold, it is best to keep them in cases with humidifiers. Always keep humidifiers fresh. As for summer, I have central AC so I do not have to worry as much. I also store my Ukes and guitars away from windows, or places that allow drafts to come through. Knock on wood I have never had an issue.
As others have stated, when the heat comes on, the ukuleles go into their cases with humidifiers. It's a good idea to purchase an inexpensive hygrometer to periodically check the actual humidity in the cases. Anything between 40%-60% is fine. If it gets lower, you're risking damage.