One of the questions we often get from customers who have replaced older, drafty windows with new energy efficient ones is “Why is there condensation on my new windows when there wasn’t any on the old ones?”.
Many people think that the presence of condensation on new windows means they are not working correctly. This is not the case. In fact, it’s the opposite. When you have new windows & doors installed you are basically tightening up any holes that were present with your old windows/doors. Now the humidity inside your home has lost its escape route to the outside world. When you see condensation on your new windows, you are actually seeing proof that your new windows/doors are energy efficient and have eliminated air leakage points throughout your home.
There are a few simple things you can do to eliminate or cut down on the amount of condensation forming on your windows:
1. Reduce the relative humidity setting in your home
2. Regularly open your windows to let the humidity escape outside
3. Use a dehumidifier in your home to greatly reduce the humidity
4. Windows in and around kitchens and bathrooms tend to collect the most condensation. Use exhaust fans in these rooms.
During the summer months exterior condensation can occur. It is caused by three main conditions: high outdoor humidity, little or no wind and a clear night sky. It forms because the temperature of the glass is cooled below the dew point of the outside air.
Again, there are a few simple things you can do to combat exterior condensation on your windows:
1. Open window coverings at night to warm up exterior glass.
2. Remove or trim shrubbery near windows or doors to promote air circulation.
3. Increase the air conditioner temperature by a couple of degrees may also help.
The illustrations below (courtesy of our friends at Pella Windows) shows what happens to an energy efficient new window and an older window under the same temperature conditions.
