Winter Window Condensation: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions

With winter weather already here in Minnesota, you may start noticing condensation on your home’s windows. What causes this and what can you do about it? We are here to answer all your questions about winter window condensation.

Condensation: Defined

Condensation occurs with the collection of water droplets from humid contacting the window’s cold glass surface. Windows are a common place for condensation to occur because the glass surfaces are colder than the walls (which have insulation). To reduce this condensation, you need to identify where it is occurring. Inside condensation is common in winter. Outside condensation is common in summer. 

Causes

Condensation will form when warm, humid air contacts the cold glass surface. In winter, this happens because the outside cold is transferred through the window glass to  the indoor air, which is warm and humid. That’s when condensation develops. Everyday activities such as cooking, bathing, and even breathing can contribute to your home’s humidity.

Replacing drafty windows can help to make a tighter seal, but keep in mind that interior window condensation is common and not a problem in most instances. However, it’s important to address this issue, as excessive and persistent indoor window condensation can result in mold or mildew growth.  

Preventing Condensation

You can take these steps to prevent or reduce interior window condensation in winter. 

Use a Dehumidifier

Whether you choose a small portable dehumidifier or you install a whole-house dehumidifier, this can help to lessen condensation on your windows. That’s because dehumidifiers are designed to extract excess water from the air, and in turn can also eliminate musty odors, and prevent mildew, mold and bacteria from forming.

Run Exhaust Fans

When cooking in the kitchen or showering in the bathroom, turn on the exhaust fans. That’s because moisture is released into the air every time you engage in those activities. Without a way out, that moisture will cling to your windows. Leave the fans on for a while after cooking and showering – at least 20 minutes.

Leave Interior Doors Open 

To help with air circulation and reduce window condensation, keep interior doors open throughout the home. This will prevent humidity from building up in one place. Even in the winter, use your ceiling fans to push warm air downwards from the ceiling. If the temperature isn’t too cold outside, open up windows a crack to let out moist air that could be trapped in inside.

Keep Heat on Low

Frequent fluctuations in the indoor temperature can cause condensation to form on your windows. Jacking up the heat on high to warm up your home, then turning it off to cool down only serves to create extremes of temperature. Instead, keep it on a constant, relatively low heat to prevent condensation.

Contact Allstar Construction for Energy Efficient Replacement Windows

If the “condensation” you see on your windows is actually occurring inside the glass, this means the seal has been broken and you will likely need new windows. For that, get an online quote and schedule your on-site consultation today with our expert window contractors.

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