The windows in your home open up to the outdoors, a way to let light in as you enjoy the view of your garden, yard or scenery. The last thing you want to see is a sweaty window plastered in a layer of condensation.

Not only are windows coated in condensation unattractive, they also can be a symptom of a more substantial air-quality deficit throughout your home. Luckily, there’s several things you can try to correct the problem.

What Produces Condensation along Windows

Condensation on the inside of windows is created by the humid warm air inside your home mixing with the cold surface of your windows. It’s notably commonplace over the winter when it’s much cooler outside than it is inside your home.

Inside Moisture vs. In Between Panes

When discussing condensation, it’s necessary to understand the distinction between moisture on the inside of your windows versus moisture in between the windowpanes. One is an air-quality issue and the other is a window issue.

  • Moisture inside a window is caused from the warm humid air inside your home condensing on the glass.
  • The moisture you see between windowpanes is caused when the window seal stops working and moisture gets in between the two panes of glass, and at that point the window needs to be repaired or replaced.
  • Condensation in the windows isn’t a window issue and can instead be resolved by changing the humidity inside your home. Numerous things cause humidity throughout a home, such as showers, cooking, laundry or even breathing.

Why Condensation on Windows Can Be Trouble

Even though you might presume condensation inside your windows is a cosmetic concern, it may also be indicating your home has high humidity. If that’s the case, water might also be collecting on window frames, cold walls or other surfaces. Even a thin film of water can cause wood surfaces to mildew or rot over time, promoting the growth of mildew or mold.

How to Reduce Humidity Throughout Your Home

Thankfully there are various options for eliminating moisture from the air in your home.

If you have a humidifier running within your home – whether it be a small unit or a whole-house humidifier – lower it further so the humidity inside your home decreases.

If you don’t have a humidifier running and your home’s humidity level is higher than you prefer, consider installing a dehumidifier. While humidifiers put moisture into your home so the air doesn’t get too dry, a dehumidifier draws excess moisture out of the air.

Smaller, portable dehumidifiers can eliminate the water from a single room. However, these units require clearing water trays and usually service a somewhat limited area. A whole-house dehumidifier will eliminate moisture from your entire home.

Whole-house dehumidifier systems are controlled by a humidistat, which enables you to specify a humidity level precisely like you would choose a temperature on your thermostat. The unit will start immediately when the humidity level surpasses the set level. These systems coordinate with your home’s HVAC system, so you should contact experienced professionals for whole-house dehumidifier installation .

Other Ways to Lower Condensation on Windows

  • Exhaust fans. Adding exhaust fans in humidity hotspots such as the bathroom, laundry room or above the stove can help by pulling the warm, humid air from these areas out of your home before it can elevate the humidity level in your home.
  • Ceiling fans. Running ceiling fans can also keep air moving throughout the home so humid air doesn’t get caught up in one spot.
  • Opening up window treatments. Opening the blinds or drapes can reduce condensation by preventing the warm air from being caught against the windowpane.

By lowering humidity in your home and moving air throughout your home, you can enjoy clear, moisture-free windows even during the winter.