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Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common problems with windows. It can affect visibility by reducing the amount of natural light, and can also cause stains, mould, and peeling paint on surfaces near the window. The source of this moisture can be credited to normal household activity such as cooking, dishwashing, bathing, clothes washing, plants, aquariums, and exposed earth floors in crawlspaces.

Tips to reduce condensation

Reduce amount of moisture produced:

  • turn off humidifiers in the home;
  • cover cooking pots to reduce steam;
  • don’t hang clothes to dry inside;
  • vent the clothes dryer to the outdoors;
  • cover exposed earth in basements or crawlspaces with a moisture barrier;
  • take shorter showers and baths;
  • reduce the number of houseplants in your home;
  • don’t store firewood indoors.

Improve air circulation:

  • move furniture or objects blocking registers;
  • run the furnace fan continuously at low speed;
  • open drapes or blinds over windows.

Increase ventilation:

  • use the kitchen exhaust fan while cooking and the bathroom exhaust fan while bathing; these fans should be vented to the outdoors.

Improve windows:

  • install storm windows;
  • replace windows with ENERGY STAR® certified units.