Constant condensation on your windows can be a major annoyance, as it impairs your view and often leaves a small puddle of water behind. Beyond these frustrations, condensation can be a symptom of a larger problem with your home, so it should be addressed as quickly as possible. Below, we’ve explained what causes window condensation and provided ten ways you can get rid of condensation on windows. We’re also sharing our best guidance on when you should consider replacing your windows, so you can make an informed decision.
What Causes Condensation on Windows?
The first step toward eliminating your window condensation is to identify the cause. Here are some common causes of excessive window condensation.
Temperature differences: A drastic difference in temperature between the two sides of a window is one of the most common causes of condensation. Typically, the condensation happens on the warmer side of the window, as this is often the humid side. This is also why window condensation is common in the morning, as the heat of the morning sun hitting the cold window results in condensation.
Humidity levels: High humidity levels exacerbate the problem of window condensation. While there’s nothing you can do to control the outside humidity, monitoring your home’s interior humidity level can aid in preventing window condensation.
Window quality: If your windows are constantly covered in condensation with no obvious cause, it could be the windows themselves. Lower-quality windows often have more problems with condensation.
Condensation between the window panes is indicative of a problem with the window’s seal. This is a good sign it’s time for new windows.
How to Get Rid of Condensation on Exterior Windows
While exterior condensation is likely not a cause for concern, it can block your view outside. Here are some of the most effective ways to get rid of exterior window condensation:
Change your home’s temperature: If you can take the heat, turning your air conditioning up a few degrees may be all it takes to narrow the gap between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, which will help mitigate the exterior condensation.
Trim your bushes: While this one may not make much sense at first, hear us out. Trimming your bushes helps to curb your window condensation by improving the air circulation and sun exposure on your windows.
Apply water repellant: While a window water repellant doesn’t cure the cause of window condensation, it may help discourage it by helping water to bead on the surface and run off rather than staying put.
How to Get Rid of Condensation on Interior Windows
Unlike exterior window condensation, interior window condensation that’s left unchecked can be cause for concern. Typically, the most effective way to eliminate your home’s interior window condensation is by lowering the humidity inside your house. Here are the most effective ways to do so:
Run a dehumidifier: If your home runs on the humid side, a dehumidifier may be necessary to remove the excess moisture in the air. Just be mindful that a dehumidifier will warm the air as it removes the humidity.
Run fans: Increasing your interior air circulation by running fans will help reduce condensation on windows.
Get a smaller HVAC unit: You may think an oversized air conditioning unit is good, as it can cool the air more efficiently than a smaller unit. While this is true, it causes more problems than you think. Your house relies on the air conditioner to remove moisture from the air as it cools. If the air conditioner is oversized, it cools the house too quickly and doesn’t run long enough to remove the moisture from the air.
Open the curtains: Curtains and blinds can hold humidity against windows and prevent proper air circulation, causing condensation.
Remove plants: While plants have a lot of positive things to offer your home’s interior, they can release humidity into the air, causing condensation to form on windows. You can remove or move them to an area with better ventilation.
Remove firewood: Firewood that hasn’t been thoroughly dried will continually release moisture into your home’s interior until dry. If you notice a correlation, place your firewood outside.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Windows
If you’ve tried everything to get rid of your window condensation but nothing has helped, it’s likely due to the quality of your windows. Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your windows:
Condensation between panes: Condensation occurring between the panes of glass on your window is a telltale sign that the window’s insulation is failing.
High utility bills: If your utility bills are higher than normal, it could be a problem with your windows. Swapping them for energy-efficient replacement windows may cost a lot upfront, but it can significantly lower your utility bill long-term.
Increase in outdoor noise: If it seems like you can hear the chirping birds, passing cars, and airplanes flying overhead more than you did in the past, you’re not crazy. More noise bleed into your home could be a sign that your windows are nearing the end of their lifespan.
Your windows are drafty: If your windows are drafty, it’s time to replace them. Doing so will make your home more comfortable and more energy efficient.
Age: While we’re not advocating for senseless replacement if your windows are still in good shape, there’s a good chance that an upgrade is in order for windows more than 20 years old.