Wet Attic Condensation

Traces where water has trickled down the walls.

Wet attic condensation.

The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source. However you ll need to drain it frequently in order for it to function properly. Once the dehumidifier s storage tank is full it won t be able to remove any more moisture. In the event of the attic not being properly ventilated this would condense on the underside of the roof.

Condensation will arise as a result of warm moist air penetrating up through the ceiling. When water condenses and drips into your attic or home it can cause a some serious secondary problems. It can also cause mold to grow on roof sheathing trusses rafters and ceiling floor. If you set the air conditioning temperature higher then the temperature of the return air will also be higher and there will be less chance of sweating at the ahu.

Signs of condensation in the attic may include the following. As the humidity level rises outdoors condensation will gradually begin to form on the surface of your air conditioning ducts. First water dripping off of your ducts and onto your insulation can cause the insulation to compress which decreases it s r value or ability to insulate. A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective.

Also because airflow is not uniform significant condensation may still occur. This condensation can form droplets of water and accumulate into the insulation below. This accumulation can leak through the attic floor and into your living space. Condensation on your ceiling can cause water damage and promote the growth of mold or mildew.

It is common for poorly vented and insulated attics to develop attic condensation. Drying out a wet attic placing a dehumidifier inside the attic will help to draw out moisture from the surrounding environment. It s a natural process and similar to the way a chilled soda begins to sweat once you take it out of the refrigerator on a hot day. For each relative humidity rh value there is a temperature value below which the condensation will start.

The colder the air is inside the duct the greater the chance of ductwork sweating.