The best ways to control condensation and infiltration in your home can be answered here. Heating and cooling expenses make a considerable part of your energy bills. Here’s the good news – you can easily minimize this cost while reducing your environmental footprint at the same time. The best and most eco-friendly way to do that is to reduce infiltration and condensation in your home. We have prepared this handy guide to help you achieve precisely that goal. Let’s get started.
What is Air Infiltration and How to Reduce It?
Also known as air leakage (AL), this air enters inside your home through gaps and cracks in your doors, windows, ducts, vents, or wall joints. Old windows are one of the primary causes of air infiltration. Air leakage (AL) can increase your energy expenses significantly and make your home uncomfortable and drafty. Here are a few effective ways to reduce AL in your home.
1. Install New Windows with A Low AL rating
A simple way to reduce air infiltration is to replace your old and worn-out windows with new energy-efficient windows immediately. While you’re at it, make sure to check the Air Leakage (AL) rating of your new windows. The lower the AL rating, the lesser air it will allow to pass through the window. Your goal should be to choose a window with the lowest AL rating possible (0.30 or lower).
2. Window Installation and Construction
Get in touch with your contractor and ask them about your best options in windows such as window styles, gas fills, or coatings that can help you effectively reduce air infiltration. AL rates can also depend on the type of windows, such as double-hung, fixed, sliding, or casement, etc.
3. Location of Your Home
According to AAMA (The American Architectural Manufacturers Association), AL can vary depending on your window location and regional climate
What Is Condensation?
Condensation usually takes place when hot and humid air hits a cool surface. This leads to the formation of water droplets on the colder surface. If left unattended, it can lead to mold issues or even structural damage over time.
Look out for condensation ratings on the windows you want to buy. Also known as Condensation Resistance Factor, It is a measure of how effectively the window panes can resist condensation.
Some latest windows come with state-of-the-art mechanisms and techniques that can further prevent condensation and humidity in your home. Look out for technologies such as insulation spacers, low E-glazing, and argon gas, among others.
How to Reduce Humidity and Condensation in Your Home?
You can easily minimize humidity and moisture in your home with the following steps:
- Proper Ventilation – Install exhaust systems at moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. In absence of efficient ventilation, condensation can occur due to the steam from the shower and evaporation from cooking that can quickly increase the moisture levels in your home.
- Dehumidifier – These are quite beneficial for reducing moisture levels in dark and damp spaces like your basement.
Looking For Condensation Resistance Replacement Windows?
If you want to get rid of your damaged, foggy, or worn-out windows, contact Mississippi Landsource or Doug Rushing Realty today, and let our experts point you in the right direction.