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Let me comment on the installers. As you know, I’ve been involved with the building trades for over fifty years. These men are gentleman and journ...
Now that you know the “what and why” of condensation, it’s time to learn how to reduce the conditions that cause it, especially if you are concerned about the effects of that excess moisture on your home and health. There are several steps you can take in three main areas:
1. Reduce Moisture Sources
Stop or severely limit the use of humidifiers, or adjust them to the appropriate setting.
Run a dehumidifier if needed.
Limit plants, aquariums, and pets. If you care for a lot of plants, group them in one sunny room and avoid over watering.
Have your gas appliances checked, if you have not recently. Malfunctioning gas appliances can deliver excessive water vapor into the air along with more dangerous contaminants. Be sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm.
Store firewood outside.
Eliminate plumbing leaks.
Don’t air-dry clothes indoors.
Correct grading and drainage problems around exterior of your home.
2. Increase Ventilation
Open windows for a few minutes each day, particularly after steam-producing activities such as showering/bathing, laundry, and cooking. Heat loss will be minimal.
Run kitchen, bathroom, and other fans longer and more often.
Improve or add a ventilation system in your home through attic, roof and soffit venting. Ensure that everything vents to the outside.
Open blinds and drapes. Heavy window coverings restrict the flow of warm air over the interior glass surface.
Operate ceiling fans to improve air circulation.
3. Increase Air Temperature
Raise the temperature inside the house.
Insulate under the seat and over the head of bay, bow, and garden windows to keep window area warmer.
Direct warm-air supply ducts toward windows or even use a fan for increased air circulation at windows.
If you continue to have alarming condensation and other moisture problems and you have taken the steps above, it may be beneficial to consult a heating contractor specialist for further cures.
Independent Resources Clearing the Air About Condensation, Tom Feiza, Home Tips Home Moisture, Home Energy Guide, Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Information Center Indoor Air Quality – Temperature and Humidity, Environmental Health & Safety, Bowling Green State University Council Notes on Moisture Control, University of Illinois Small Homes Council, Building Research Council
Reproduced with permission from our partners at Sunrise Windows.
