Blog

Why Are My Pipes Sweating?

Ever notice condensation around your pipes, fixtures, or toilet tanks? This phenomenon, often referred to as plumbing sweat, is the result of warm, humid air meeting cooler pipes and toilets – much like you’d see on a glass of cold lemonade on a hot day.

Plumbing sweat require extra wiping to keep the areas dry. If left unchecked, it can damage nearby surfaces while fostering mold growth.

Here are a few ways to nip this pesky problem before damage can occur.

Add insulation to pipes. A simple and inexpensive way to keep plumbing pipes from sweating is the use of pipe insulation. It’s available at your local home improvement store and is easy to install.

Focus on dew point. The higher the humidity level, the higher the dew point, which is the temperature needed to cool warm and humid air before it can release water vapor.  Once you decrease the humidity the dew point will fall as well, thus minimizing or preventing plumbing sweat.

Increase water temperature. An anti-sweat valve connects to the hot and cold water supply lines and introduces hot water into cold water as needed. Doing so raises the temp just enough to make the surface warmer, thereby reducing or eliminating condensation. You also can add an anti-sweat valve under your sink.

Install a ventilation fan. Your extra-long, hot showers aren’t helping the condensation situation. Make sure you have a properly sized vent fan in your bathroom to remove moisture from the air. Run it during your shower or bath and leave it running for at least 10 minutes after you’re done.

Eliminate additional moisture. The next step is to repair any problems that could allow additional moisture to enter the inside of your pipe. This might include leaking or dripping pipes, excessive water around the outside of the foundation or exterior walls and any cracks in exterior walls or foundations. These repairs range from tightening a faucet, repairing a gutter, or coating your basement floor and walls with a waterproof sealant.

Add a whole-house dehumidifier. Your central AC system was designed to effectively limit the amount of humidity build-up in your home. As the system ages, however, that ability gradually decreases. That’s when it’s time to consider a whole-house dehumidifier so you can control humidity levels year-round.

If you have plumbing sweat and can’t seem to get rid of it – plus other home humidity issues – contact Messmer Mechanical today for the right solution with a guaranteed price quote.