A. The answer varies, depending upon whether the condensation is on the Exterior Pane, the Interior Pane or Between the Panes.

EXTERIOR PANE
Condensation on the outside of your windows or patio doors may occur during spring and in the fall, usually when cool nights follow a warm day. It is a result of moisture in the air exceeding certain limits and the temperature of the glass falling below the dew point in the air. Condensation on the exterior glass panes is a natural phenomenon, especially for energy-efficient High-Performance™ insulating glass (currently the standard on most Andersen® products), which restricts the airflow between the panes of glass. This condensation will evaporate once the day warms.

INTERIOR PANE
Edges or entire pane.
Condensation on the inside of your windows is a result of too much moisture in the air of your home. This condition is common in new homes, where it may take months for the moisture from paint and fresh building materials to dissipate. This condition is also common in winter. Humidity levels in winter months should not exceed 30-35%. To maintain these levels in your home, you may want to:

• check your venting,
• use a dehumidifier to remove moisture,
• turn your humidifier on furnace down or off,
• turn on exhaust fans during showers, and
• allow ceiling fans to run and circulate the air.

Oval in Center
An oval condensation ring on the interior glass surface is an indicator that interior and exterior panes of glass have collapsed toward each other. You need to repair or replace the window sash or door panel.

BETWEEN THE PANES .
When the seals along the outer perimeter of glass fail and allow moisture to penetrate the space between panes of insulated glass, your window or door will appear cloudy or fogged. Please check and make sure the glass does not have chemicals or pollutants on the outside surface. Once you confirm that the condensation is between the panes, you will need to replace the window sash or door panel.

--Anderson Windows

Information provided by: Accurate Windows and Doors. For more expert advice, tune in to Florida Homes and Gardens Saturdays @ 10AM.