Controlling Humidity

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>   Condensation (Home)
>   Technical Condensation Information
>   Controlling Humidity
>   Surface Condensation
>   What Can Effect the Performance of Windows?
>   Condensation on the Outside of Windows
>   Window Convection & Drafts

Ventilation is the most effective means for the householder to remove moisture. By exchanging some of the drier outdoor winter air for warm humid interior air the moisture level will be reduced.

• Opening a door or window for short periods can lose air from your home in large amounts
• Gas appliances produce moisture from combustion and cooking adds even more moisture - be sure to run your kitchen fan while cooking. It is necessary to vent the kitchen fan directly to the outside to achieve the desired effect.
• Showers are a very high source of moisture. Bathroom doors should be kept shut and the exhaust fan should be running.
• Clothes drying in the basement should be done in a dryer with an outside vent; hanging up clothes to dry must not be done in cold weather.
• Shut off the furnace humidifier and any other humidifying device in the home.
• If there is a fireplace, open the damper occasionally to allow moisture to escape.
• Free air circulation is important. Do not cover hot or cold air registers. Leave bedroom and bathroom doors open.
• Keep all rooms at minimum of 10 degrees C even if unoccupied. Condensation will occur in an unheated room.
• Wipe up any tracked in snow before it melts and evaporates.
• Floors wet from mopping can add large amounts of moisture. Run any house exhaust fans while floors are wet. Do not wash floors on extremely cold days.
• Most builders install a fresh air intake into the cold air return duct of the heating system. Make sure that the intake damper is open and that there are no obstructions to prevent airflow. If no fresh air intake, have one installed.
• Caulk the perimeter of doors and windows to reduce air leakage.
• Drapes and blinds should be left open during the daytime. Even at night leave blinds up off the frame to allow air to flow against the glass