Should the condensation on your windows concern you? The answer is yes, if it is a frequent problem. That’s because condensation on home windows can indicate a moisture problem, which has caused a lot of damage to Twin Cities metro area homes over the years. So why does window condensation happen and what can be done to stop it?
About Window Condensation
Window condensation occurs as warm, moist air moves towards a cooler window. As it comes in contact with the glass, the air cools and releases the moisture it holds, resulting in fog or water droplets on the glass.
Temporary issues with condensation on home windows are fairly common, and can be caused by transient situations like sudden, dramatic temperature changes, especially humid weather or home remodeling. Such temporary problems generally resolve themselves as conditions revert to normal.
Frequent condensation on home windows often indicates a persistent moisture problem, which merits further investigation, since excessive moisture can lead to rotting wood, mold, mildew and other forms of water damage– especially around the windows, as condensation drips onto window frames or leaches into walls. Common causes of this situation are poor ventilation, which can trap moisture indoors, air leaks, or an unbalanced or improperly sized HVAC system, which can promote excessive indoor humidity.
Preventing Condensation on Home Windows
If you have persistent window condensation, there are a number of steps you can take to remedy the problem. Most important is to control humidity in your home, keeping it below 50 percent. Ensuring proper ventilation is key to humidity control, especially in kitchens, baths and laundry rooms. Having your HVAC specialist evaluate your heating and cooling system and any attached humidifiers/dehumidifiers can help, as can ensuring that your attic is properly vented. Other things that may help include sealing air leaks, installing double-paned windows and using insulated window coverings.
If you need more information on how to handle condensation on home windows, please contact Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve been serving the home comfort needs of homeowners throughout the Twin Cities metro area since 1974.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about condensation in your home and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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