Managing Indoor Humidity and Condensation in Your New Home During Alberta’s Cold Winter Months
If you’ve recently moved into a new home, you might notice condensation on your windows during Alberta’s cold winter months. While this can be concerning, it’s often a sign that your home is tightly built to maximize energy efficiency, a key feature of modern construction. However, managing indoor humidity in your new home is essential to maintain comfort and protect your investment from potential moisture damage.
Here are practical tips to help you keep humidity levels in check and minimize condensation this winter.
1. Monitor and Maintain Ideal Humidity Levels
New homes are built to be energy-efficient, meaning they’re better sealed against drafts. This can lead to higher indoor humidity if not managed properly. Aim for 25% to 35% humidity during the winter months.
2. Use Your Home’s Ventilation Systems
Modern homes often come equipped with advanced ventilation systems like heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) or energy recovery ventilators (ERVs). These systems circulate fresh air while maintaining energy efficiency. Make sure they’re running properly, especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
3. Prevent Cold Spots on Windows
Even with high-quality windows, new homes can experience condensation on colder days. Here’s how to mitigate it:
Open blinds and curtains during the day to let warm air reach the glass.
Use triple-pane or low-emissivity (Low-E) windows, common in modern builds, for better insulation.
Ensure window frames and seals are intact to prevent drafts that can cool surfaces further.
4. Adjust Humidifier Settings
Many new homes include humidifiers as part of the HVAC system. During the winter, set your humidifier to lower levels (around 21–25%) when temperatures drop significantly to avoid excess moisture buildup on windows.
5. Limit Indoor Moisture
Everyday activities like cooking, showering, or drying clothes can add significant moisture to the air. To reduce humidity:
Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans for at least 30–60 minutes after use.
Cover pots while cooking and vent moisture outside.
6. Run Ceiling Fans for Air Circulation
Ceiling fans are a simple yet effective tool for managing condensation. Set them to rotate clockwise at a low speed during winter to push warm air from the ceiling down to the floor. This helps keep windows and walls warm, reducing the chance of condensation.
Why Managing Humidity Matters for New Homes
New homes are designed to be more energy-efficient and airtight than ever before, which is great for lowering energy bills but requires a proactive approach to managing indoor air quality. By balancing humidity and ventilation, you can enjoy a more comfortable living space and prevent issues like mold or damage to your windows and finishes.
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