The built in hygrometer is probably glued in in some way , or just pressed in , try pushing it out a little at a time so you can do the salt test or just get a digital hygrometer . Try adjusting the screw on the back of the hygro to maybe break the needle free , it might be stuck . Most analog hygro's are junk , they use a metal spring to make the needle move , the only good kind use hair to move the needle and are much more accurate and expensive . Another test is the woosh test , open the lid and let go so it will close by itself , if it slams shut then the seal is not good but if it shuts gently with a woosh sound then the seal is excellent . If the lid slams shut then I would return the humidor , unless it was a gift . Also try sitting a shot glass full of distilled water in the humidor overnight to see if the needle adjust's , maybe the spanish cedar is really dry . If your cigars show up before you get the humi calibrated , just stick them in a cooler with the wrappers still on and sit a small dish of distilled water in with them . If you have a basement , check the RH down there , it's probably just about right or close , if it is you could just leave them in the basement . I'm no expert , these are just some thing's I've read lately on this board . Good Luck !