Condensation: Gone Forever!
Chris Isidore
| 28-02-2025
· Lifestyle Team
Condensation on windows occurs when cold glass meets warm, humid air, causing water to gather. Upgrading to highly efficient triple-glazing.
It can mitigate this issue but at a hefty price. Alternatively, maintaining a higher room temperature is also effective as it keeps the inside glass warmer.
However, these measures do not address the root cause directly.

Managing Indoor Humidity

The majority of household moisture arises from the bathroom and kitchen. To keep moisture contained, always close the bathroom door and use an extractor fan or open a window for at least 15 minutes post-shower.
In the kitchen, employ a cooker hood that vents outside and open windows while cooking to manage moisture and air pollutants effectively.

Outdoor Drying Benefits

Whenever possible, dry your laundry outside to avoid adding moisture to your home. If drying indoors is necessary, position clothes next to an open window to expedite moisture dispersal.
Additionally, a dehumidifier can assist, especially in confined areas, at a running cost of approximately 7p per hour.
Although tumble dryers offer speed, they increase utility costs—heat pump dryers are more energy-efficient with lower annual costs compared to traditional models.

Morning Moisture Management

If condensation is unavoidable, thoroughly drying off affected areas every morning reduces indoor moisture significantly.
It’s essential to remove the wet material from your living spaces promptly. Alternatively, using a window vacuum can efficiently remove moisture from surfaces, including mirrors and tiles, with prices starting at around £30.

Effective Air Circulation

Despite seeming counterintuitive, opening windows briefly, referred to as Stosslüften or "impact ventilation," helps manage moisture.
Cold air holds less moisture, and creating a short, strong draught twice daily can refresh indoor air without dramatically cooling room surfaces, thus maintaining an energy-efficient home environment.

Utilizing Trickle Vents

Modern window frames often include trickle vents, designed to allow a continuous flow of fresh air while expelling stale, damp air. For optimal performance, keep these vents open unless extreme weather conditions dictate otherwise.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

For substantial moisture control, an electric dehumidifier is highly effective. Available from around £100, these units fit into any standard wall socket and require no complex installation.

Promoting Positive Ventilation

Positive ventilation systems bring in fresh outside air to displace damp indoor air through minor leaks or vents. Options range from simple Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) units placed in lofts to sophisticated Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems.
While PIV units are more straightforward and cost-efficient, MVHR systems integrate advanced heat recovery technology, though they often require professional installation and might be more invasive and costly.