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#1 of 2 Window condensation by map79z28

Nov 30, 2009 (2:19 pm)

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• xwesx (Nov 30, 2009 3:13 pm)

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#2 of 2 Re: Window condensation [map79z28] by xwesx

Nov 30, 2009 (3:13 pm)

Replying to: map79z28 (Nov 30, 2009 2:19 pm)

There is most likely nothing wrong with the van. Condensation is all about relative humidity. If there are moisture sources inside the van, such as bodies, damp floor mats (from snow/ice), etc., the relative humidity of the warm air inside the van will likely be high. When that warm, moist air contacts the windows, which are going to be at least somewhat colder than the interior air, the temperature of that air drops and so does its moisture holding capacity. When the dew point is reached, the window fogs.
 
You can do one of two things: 1. Reduce the humidity inside the car by opening a window, making sure "recirculate" is turned off on the HVAC setting (or turn the A/C compressor on to collect the moisture on the condenser unit), etc., or 2. Warm the inside surface of the glass with the defroster or other fans. As long as the glass is warm, the fog will not form, but it will require constant warm air movement across the glass surface.
 
In a cold climate like mine (Fairbanks, Alaska), you pretty much forget about any setting other than defrost during the winter months.