How To Prevent Condensation On Windows
When you notice condensation on your windows at home, it’s a sign of higher-than-normal moisture in the air. Most homeowners will not have cause for concern if this condensation appears only occasionally. However, if you find regular occurrences of condensation, it could be a sign of poor insulation, inadequate ventilation and other issues that need to be addressed. High moisture levels can lead to the buildup of mold and mildew, which may damage windowsills and other structural aspects of your home. For homes that experience cold weather only in brief spells, high amounts of condensation are worth noting. Read below for tips on how to prevent condensation on windows.
Monitoring Humidity Levels
Condensation happens when humid air contacts a cooler surface. As a result, you will see a type of fog form on your windows when excess moisture is present in the same way you notice a bathroom mirror fogging up after a hot shower. Frequent condensation on doors and window panes throughout the house suggests that the humidity levels in your home are too high. ENERGY STAR suggests these fixes to reduce humidity levels:
- Use ventilation fans in bathrooms: Moist air from showers and baths can dramatically increase the level of humidity in your home. Vent this moist air outside with fans.
- Send the exhaust from a clothes dryer outside your home: Most homes already have the vents from a clothes dryer directed outside the home. Ask a heating and cooling professional to check for holes in the vent ducts as part of an energy audit. Vent ducts also need regular cleaning to function properly. Note that if you dry clothes on hangers inside your home, this will also raise the moisture level.
- Add storm windows or replace existing windows: Storm windows may lower the amount of moisture inside your home. ENERGY STAR recommends upgrading to ENERGY STAR labeled windows for maximum efficiency before you try to improve the protection afforded by old windows.
- Upgrade insulation: An investment in insulation always delivers a return. Ask an HVAC professional to assess the state of your insulation during the next home tuneup.
Why Condensation on Your Windows Requires a Closer Examination
Ignoring condensation in your home can lead to major structural damages down the road. The wooden elements of your windows can break down quickly, as will windowsills that are exposed to constant moisture. You may also see peeling paint, crumbling drywall and a breakdown of existing insulation. Mildew and mold growth are also concerns, particularly for any family members with respiratory issues. Excess moisture and mold can make breathing problems worse.
If the fixes described above do not prevent condensation on your windows it’s time to call in a professional to address the issue. Reliable’s air and ventilation experts can help you determine the course of action. Solutions may include limiting humidifier use, repairing kitchen and bathroom fans and sealing air leaks in ductwork.
Reliable Heating & Air can diagnose any problem in your home’s heating, cooling and ventilation system. Ask about a home checkup or a full energy audit to improve performance and reduce moisture levels today.