Condensation happens when moisture is transferred from warm air to a cooler surface. Condensation occurs on the colder window because of temperature differences between the inside and outside of the house. Windows are common condensation points in homes because of this temperature difference.

Here are the primary causes of window condensation to help you identify what is causing the issue.
High Indoor Humidity
The primary cause of window condensation is high indoor humidity. It typically increases when steam vaporizes into hot air indoors or during a rainstorm. Proper ventilation helps support normal humidity levels in the air.
Homes often have high humidity levels because of high thermostat settings. The warm indoor air may clash with the cooler outside air, which affects windowpanes and causes condensation.
Poor Air Circulation
Poor air circulation leads to high humidity in homes because it increases air moisture density. The density can manifest in window condensation and small trickles or sweating on walls.
Poor Window Installation
Poor window installation contributes to high indoor humidity because it allows the cool, dry air outside to enter the home and the warm, humid air to escape. This increases the window condensation you can observe.
Reducing Window Condensation
Here are a few ways to reduce window condensation:
Clear Curtains and Blinds
Curtains and blinds impede the flow of hot and cold air through a window and interfere with the natural convection of air. They also reduce the amount of sunlight available, which decreases temperatures and the chance of evaporating moisture within your home. Tying curtains and lifting blinds should help reduce window condensation during the day.
Reduce Thermostat Levels
When the thermostat is set to a higher temperature, the heat increases above outside temperatures, which increases the room’s humidity level. At high settings, it will cause window condensation in double-glazed windows. Reducing thermostat levels should improve indoor air humidity levels and visible condensation.
Use Indoor Dehumidification Products and Devices
Home dehumidifiers do not cool or warm your rooms. Instead, they focus on absorbing all moisture from the air inside your home. Using them helps improve air quality thanks to their filters and effectively reduces window condensation. We recommend consulting with a dehumidification manufacturer to find the perfect devices that can efficiently absorb moisture in your home.
Poor window installation is a primary cause of increased window condensation, increased thermostat use and wasted energy. We recommend using professionals to install or replace your windows for maximum dehumidification and comfort. Contact Renewal by Andersen® of Denver at (303) 968-3287 (Denver) or (719) 313-5403 (Colorado Springs), or use our quick contact form to request a free quote.