Here are some of the most frequently asked questions of piano tuners/technicians:
Q: How often should my piano be tuned?
A: This depends upon the amount of use your piano gets. The more use it gets, the more frequently it needs to be tuned. As a general rule, however, a piano should be tuned twice per year. Here's a link to click for a comprehensive answer to this question (and many others): www.ptg.org/resources-pianoOwners.php
Q: What is 'Concert pitch' or 'A440'?
A: This is the International Standard pitch used by all modern pianos (and orchestras). 'A440' and 'Concert Pitch' mean exactly the same thing. That is, the 5th 'A' up your piano's keyboard (the 'A' just above middle 'C') should be tuned to vibrate at 440 hertz (cycles per second). Some very old pianos aren't built to withstand the tension of Concert Pitch. Your ARPT (see ARPT defined in this site) should tell you if your piano can't be tuned to 'A440'. Here's a link which explores this subject thoroughly: www.concertpitchpiano.com/WhatsConcertPitch.html
Q: My Grandmother always kept a bowl of water in her piano because "Australia is too hot". Is this recommended?
A: Definitely NOT! This is one of those 'old wives tales' you must ignore because severe damage can result from the loosening of vital glue joints, not to mention rust and oxidation on metal parts, such as strings and springs. If you wish to stabilize your piano's interior climate, then ask your ARPT to recommend a device specifically designed for piano climate control (called a 'Humidifier/Dehumidifier'). These devices are relatively inexpensive (compared to the cost of your piano and/or the damage caused by excess moisture) and use very little power. NEVER use a bowl of water!
