When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

Debunking Frequent Myths Concerning Cold-Weather Condensation

24 July 2015 by Clara Fernandez

With the cold weather approaching, you may be looking forward to firing up your home heating system, but there is a pretty good chance you will not be looking forward to it if you know that cold-weather condensation is once again going to be an issue. Cold-weather condensation occurs when the air temperatures outside collide with the warm temperatures in your home, which causes moisture buildup on walls and ceilings in some homes. Even though this issue can be easily solved, there are some common misconceptions about cold-weather condensation in the home. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions and the real facts you should know as a homeowner.

Misconception: Condensation is only caused by lack of insulation in the home.

Fact: It is true that lacking insulation is the biggest culprit to blame if you are having issues with condensation when the temperatures drop. However, this may not always be the only reason that the problem is happening. In some locations, condensation can be almost impossible to avoid because the temperatures outside drop so low. Further, it may not be that you do not have enough insulation but the wrong type. For example, fiber-fill insulation is not always as protective against moisture as spray foam insulation: therefore, it may be better if you have your insulation replaced by something more efficient if you are having big issues in cold months. .

Misconception: As long as you use a dehumidifier in the winter, the condensation is really not that big of a deal.

Fact: You can use a dehumidifier in the coldest temperatures to help temper the effects of cold-weather condensation, and this will likely help you to eliminate a lot of the moisture that you see on walls and ceilings. However, this will not solve the problems with condensation that you cannot see that may be hiding inside of the walls or in places where water damage can stay hidden for years and create major mold issues. It is a much better idea to have your home heating system fitted with a condensation reduction attachment and work to make sure your home is as insulated as it should be.

When it comes down to it, cold-weather condensation in the home during the winter can be a big problem that should be addressed right away. If you have issues with cold-weather condensation, talk to a heating contractor for advice about what you can do to solve the problem. If you have issues with cold-weather condensation, talk to a heating contractor for advice about what you can do to solve the problem.

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