CONTROLLING INDOOR HUMIDITY IN THE WINTER
Condensation occurs when warm damp air contacts cooler air, or a cold surface. All air contains water vapour in varying quantities and its capacity to do so is related to its temperature-warm air holds more moisture than cold air. When moist air comes into contact with either colder air or a colder surface, the air is unable to retain the same amount of moisture and the water is released to form condensation.
What causes condensation? High levels of humidity create condensation. Humidity is produced in relatively large quantities from normal day to day activities. The actions that cause condensation are often essential to everyday living and therefore unavoidable, however, simple lifestyle changes and improved air ventilation can minimize the impact condensation has on your property investment.
Diagnosis and why you want to avoid condensation? Condensation is the most common damp problem to affect properties. A condensation problem can manifest in a number of different ways, meaning it is often misdiagnosed as something else by people without knowledge and experience. The most common misdiagnosis is poor window or door quality and broken seals. Knowing how to spot the tell tale signs of condensation will help catch it as early as possible, often nipping a problem in the bud before property damage occurs. The excess moisture causes by condensation on cold surfaces such as exterior doors or windows can often lead to severe ice buildup and dampness that can wreck finishings or cause mold. Please do not ignore the problem. You, as the owner and investor in the property are the only one that can control your humidity in your home.
How do you control humidity and improve ventilation in your home?
o Keep your furnace fan in the “on” position rather than “Auto” to keep air circulating
o Keep blinds raised at least a few inches & open to allow cold surfaces to breathe
o Run bathroom exhaust fans while showering or bathing for half hour to an hour
o Run your primary air fan (the wall switch by your thermostat) or range fan while cooking
o Keep your heat in home to a minimum (approx 20 C.) to avoid dramatic temp. differences
o Wipe moisture on windows and sills to prevent trim and drywall damage (this damage is not warrantied)
o Check your furnace filter on a regular basis. A clean filter will increase max. airflow
o If you have a humidifier turn it off when temperature is below 0 C.
o Ensure clothes dryer is properly ducted and avoid hanging clothes to dry when temp outside is cold
o Ensure fresh air intake for furnace is free of ice or blockage
o Ensure hot and cold registers are clear of furniture and avoid air deflectors
o Ceilings fans or stand up fans are extremely beneficial and recommended
o Avoid washing floors on extremely cold days
o Do not stack items against windows or doors on the inside or outside
o Ensure there are no leaks in water pipes or drains
o Open doors or windows periodically to allow the dry air outside to replace moist air inside
o Purchase a hygrometer to keep an eye on your humidity (comfort zone will be 35%-40%)