Fresh Air, No Damp: The Solatube Way to Winter Comfort
California is blessed with its climate. The summers are wonderful, and the winters never get too cold, unless you go up to the mountains for the snow. The mild winters we have here are the envy of those who suffer from ice, snow and freezing damp in many other parts of the country. But it is unwise to take the mild winters we have for granted. Humidity and dampness rise and these pose risks for your home that are often underappreciated. Not being aware of the damage that a damp winter can do can turn into a very costly mistake.
Condensation
In colder weather, it’s not unusual to wake up in the morning and find the inner surface of windows covered with a film of dampness or even small droplets of water. This is because when there is excess moisture in the air and it comes into contact with a cold surface like a window pane, the moisture adheres to the colder surface. It’s easy to take a cloth and wipe away the moisture and to think that that is all there is to it. Not so. The moisture that is in the air remains and if it is allowed to stagnate, the ideal environment for moisture and mold to develop is created. While condensation can be a problem in all parts of a house, the problem is often worse in kitchens and bathrooms, where cooking and bathing create steam.
In an effort to keep the cold wind out, homeowners tend to keep their windows and doors closed on cold days. This means that any moisture that is added to the indoor air during the day remains trapped in the house. So, there is going to be more dampness collecting on cool surfaces. In places where the temperatures really drop, heating systems are going to be used. While that will warm the house, it also causes an increase in water vapor, which increases the amount of condensation that can occur.
It’s More Than an Annoyance
Condensation is usually thought of as just another annoying inconvenience that we have to deal with, but it is much more than that. It can cause serious damage to a structure and what is inside it. If dampness is allowed to remain, it can result in damage to plasterwork and window and door frames. It can also damage any wooden items in the house. The moisture is absorbed by the wood, and this causes the wood to warp and expand. Even when the air dries out, the warped wood may not return to its original shape. It may develop cracks that can cause the wood to split. And any damaged plaster and paint will have to be scraped off, the surface cleaned and completely dried before repair and repainting can begin. This is not a DIY project. Because the condition of doors, windows and walls is very visible, the repairs must be done expertly, not only so that the effects of damage are removed but also to ensure that the interiors of the house look the way you want them to. And let’s not forget the clothes in the closet that have been put away until next summer. Dampness that collects can damage the colors and fabrics and it is only when the warm weather returns that the severity of the damage is noticed.
Condensation can also happen in summer because of the temperature change from day to night. Ventilation is not just a matter of opening a few windows to let fresh air inside. Proper ventilation, the kind that keeps the house and the people who live in it healthy, must be done scientifically. That means that it must be effective and at the same time, it should not make the house an uncomfortable and cold place to be in. The right way to go about ensuring that a house is well ventilated but done so in a manner that does not increase heating costs, is to use whole house and attic fans. These fans will blow stale and damp air out and draw in fresh, clean air from the outside. This refreshing of the air will not have a significant effect on the indoor temperature. How effective these fans are in ventilating a house without increasing HVAC costs depends on the design and quality of the fans. Solatube is the world leader in ventilation fans, and the company manufactures a range of models, including solar-powered ones that use no electricity. In the Bay Area, Sunlight Concepts is the Solatube Premier Dealer and the free consultation offer gives you easy and complete access to all that you need to know to make informed decisions on the ventilation of your home. Go to the company website to learn more and also to learn more about when the 30% federal tax credit on these products is going to go.
FAQs on Winter Ventilation and Condensation
Why does condensation form on my windows during winter?
Condensation forms when warm, humid indoor air comes into contact with a cold surface like a windowpane. The moisture in the air cools down and turns into water droplets on the surface.
Is condensation just a normal part of winter?
No, while some condensation is common, persistent moisture can lead to mold growth, damage to plaster, paint, and wood, and even affect indoor air quality.
Can keeping windows closed during winter make condensation worse?
Yes. When windows and doors remain shut, moisture from cooking, bathing, and daily activities gets trapped inside, raising humidity levels and causing more condensation on cold surfaces.
How can I prevent condensation and dampness in my home?
The key is proper ventilation. Using whole-house and attic fans helps circulate fresh air, remove dampness, and prevent mold—without letting cold air or high energy bills in.
Do Solatube ventilation systems help with winter dampness?
Absolutely. Solatube’s whole-house fans and attic fans are designed to remove stale, moist air while bringing in fresh outdoor air. Many models are solar-powered, making them energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
Will installing a ventilation fan make my home colder?
No. Solatube ventilation systems are engineered to improve air quality and reduce moisture without significantly lowering indoor temperature or increasing heating costs.
Are there any incentives for installing Solatube fans?
Yes. Eligible solar-powered models qualify for a 30% federal tax credit, helping homeowners save while improving indoor comfort and air quality.
Where can I learn more or get a consultation?
You can reach out to Sunlight Concepts, the Solatube Premier Dealer in the Bay Area, for a free consultation and expert guidance on choosing the right ventilation system for your home.