Winter Condensation

Have you noticed condensation along the bottom of your windows? This can create an environment where mould or mildew could grow in your home. Allowing the windows to breathe is important because it helps airflow dry out the moisture accumulation on the windows.  

If you haven’t already done so, take off the screens on your windows thus allowing better air circulation to help prevent accumulation of condensation or ice build-up on your windows.

Open all window coverings (drapes, blinds, etc.) during the day.  Ceiling fans can help circulate warm air, just ensure the fan is set to rotate clockwise to push warm air off the ceiling.

Make sure that your HRV (heat recovery ventilation) systems are cleaned, serviced and running effectively. This is particularly important during the colder months because the newer your home is, the tighter it’s built. This mechanical ventilation requires regular cleaning and servicing, so these homes don’t develop mould and other condensation issues.

You should be running your bathroom fans before you start your shower and allowing them to run for at least 20 minutes after your shower is done. You may want to add a humidistat switch to your bathroom fans that automatically come on when the humidity levels go up.

Also run your kitchen exhaust fans when cooking with the same principal in mind, to remove excess moisture from your home. If you are living in a property without a properly installed ventilation system, running the bathroom and kitchen fans becomes even more important.

Older homes had more natural ventilation and often did not have bathroom or kitchen fans but as we renovate and upgrade homes with newer windows and doors, these create better seals and increase the chance of trapping moisture in your home. If you are upgrading these items remember to add bathroom and kitchen fans to your scope of work.