Now that the temperatures in the Twin Cities have dropped to the single digits, the potential for ice build-up on the interior of windows again exists. What are its causes, and if you have this problem, what can you do about it?
The main cause of ice forming on the insides of windows is cold air from the window itself or leaking around the window frame, meeting moist air and freezing. If you have an older house with single-pane windows and no storms or those which fit poorly, the problem can be especially nagging. Put your hand on the window glass itself – if it is very cold, you may have the potential for ice formation. Even newer windows – if improperly installed or ill-fitting – can lead to ice build-up as well. A permanent solution to this is to replace your windows with new energy-efficient, well-insulated ones with double- or triple-pane glass with gas filling.
If you’re not ready to replace your windows (or a project like that in the middle of the winter is not appealing), here are some things you can do to prevent or at least reduce ice build-up:
Reduce the moisture level in your home. If you see condensation forming on your windows, the first thing you may want to do is reduce the setting on your humidifier to cut the amount of moisture in the air. Remember that the humidifier is not the only source of moisture – showers and cooking add it as well. A moister environment can make it more comfortable to reduce your thermostat setting, so you want to find a good balance between comfort and condensation.
Don’t block air flow around the window. If you close your drapes, blinds, or shades at night, that traps the moist air against the cold glass, increasing the likelihood that ice will form when the temperatures drop. Running a low-level stand fan or ceiling fan to keep air circulating in the room may also help.
Stop air leakage. To determine if air leakage around the window is the culprit, hold a lit candle near the window edges. If the flame flickers, when you move it close to the window, there is probably an air leak. Removable caulk around the window frames and where the sashes meet is a temporary solution. If the problem is severe, you may want to install one of those interior window sealing films that come in do-it-yourself kits. It is somewhat unsightly and once installed you can’t open the window without removing the film, but it can be an easy fix until you can get the cause taken care of permanently.
If you do get ice build-up, simply open the blinds or pull the drapes away, put a fan near the window, and let the warm room air melt the ice. Don’t try to chip it away or you may damage the window glass and/or the frame.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
