Is silica gel useless in dry climates?

I've been looking at getting some more of the aluminum silica packs for my Pelican cases and for my 200-400 case. After researching online, I am more confused than before. On one hand, my current packs do seem to absorb moisture as they change color (indicative packs that change color when they need to be recharged). On the other hand, I have found several websites that state that the packs are not effective below 40% humidity. My home thermostats also have humidity sensors and I rarely see humidity above 40%.

Has anyone else researched this before? Maybe I'm stressing over a non-issue?

I wouldn't bother with humidity under 40%. Humidity and mold are more of a problem back east where you sweat just getting out of bed in the summer.

mike_d wrote in post #16514879
I wouldn't bother with humidity under 40%. Humidity and mold are more of a problem back east where you sweat just getting out of bed in the summer.

Thanks for the feedback. That's what I'm leaning towards.