If I have a lot of condensation on my windows in the winter what can I do about it?
We are now well into winter so ice dams and condensation on the windows are hot topics, and believe it or not, there is a connection.
When it is very cold out it is not unusual to see some condensation on the windows. This is not necessarily a bad thing. To be comfortable humidity should be maintained between 30% and 40% RH, out side of that range you get mould if it is too high or it will be too dry if low and dust allergies may be a problem. Even at 30% RH there will be some condensation on the windows. Removing the screens will ease the situation and reduce ice build up at the bottom of the window. Ice on the window can cause the sealed window unit to fail.
Window condensation can be a problem in electrically heated houses built in the 80’s or an older house that has upgraded windows and heating system. Humidity can build up from normal living, cooking, showers, etc. Old houses leak enough to provide for some air exchange with the dryer outside air. Newer or upgraded houses should have a heat recovery ventilator installed to control the humidity. If humidity is building up and you don’t have a heat recovery ventilator then open a window for a few minutes a day and let in some fresh air. It is a good idea to purchase a humidity indicator so you know what you humidity is. Humidity indicators are available from most electronic stores. Humidity is a difficult parameter to measure accurately so when you purchase an indicator choose one that reads the same as several others that are next to it on the shelf.
