How to Control Condensation on Windows

Generally in winters, people face the problem of window condensation. While for some this is just a minor inconvenience, there are people who have had bad experiences relating to window condensation. The most irksome part is when condensation blocks the window with fog or frost and the water runs down the window to stain the woodwork or damage wallpapers.

What is Condensation?

Condensation literally means change in physical state of matter from the gaseous state to the liquid state. Condensation can be categorized into two types - exterior condensation, and interior condensation. Exterior condensation is when moist air comes into contact with cool surfaces like glass. This kind of condensation occurs when the temperature of the glass or any cool surface, is less than the dew point of air. It is most common when a cool night follows a warmer day. Interior condensation is when there is excessive humidity in the house. This excessive humidity manifests itself in the form of condensation on the colder areas - normally the windows. In interior condensation, the amount of condensation is directly proportional to amount of hot air inside the house. More the hot air, more the moisture it will retain, and more will be the condensation formed on the surface. Window condensation falls into the interior condensation category.

Ways to Control Condensation on Windows

• Exhaust fans should be used in the kitchens, bathrooms and laundry room. Installing a timer which keeps the exhaust fan running for 15 to 20 minutes after a shower removes excess moisture from bathrooms. Kitchen fans should vent the air directly outside the house.
• Gas burners, clothes dryers, etc. should be aired out to avoid moisture collection. Moisture is released from wet clothes when they dry. Drying lots of wet laundry inside the house, especially during the summer season should be avoided.
• All the humidifying devices in the house should be shut off when not in use. These devices should not be used excessively. When the temperature outside gets cooler, turn down all humidifiers and use dehumidifiers in the house.
• Ventilating louvers that are open and considerably sized should be used in the house.
• For houses with fireplaces, fireplace dampers should be opened to allow an exit path for moisture-laden air. Firewood should never be dried inside the house.
• Airing out your entire house for few minutes each day is also advised.
• Storm windows or replacement windows that have double or triple glazing should be installed.
• Ducts and vents should be clear of any blockage.
• An air exchange system should be added to the heating system of the house.
• Plants should be kept away from windows.
• Sources of humidity such as water dishes, plants, fish tanks, etc. should be kept covered.

Window size is also an important factor responsible for condensation. Larger the size of window, more will be the condensation. Windows that are protected from the wind have a higher tendency of condensation. The major cause of condensation is humidity. Everything done inside the house causes humidity, be it cooking food, bathing, or breathing! Controlling humidity is the best way to control the problem of condensation.

These are just a few simple steps to control humidity, which in turn controls condensation. These ways to control window condensation are effective only if you take all the necessary precautions. Even a trivial thing like blocked ducts can ruin your efforts of minimizing condensation.