This calculator requires the use of Javascript enabled and capable browsers. This calculator is designed to give the approximate values and identify the conditions that would allow condensation to form, leaving vulnerability for mold, mildew or rot. These conditions can occur anytime and anyplace, even in the arid desert (where we are) if conditions such as swamp coolers are present. Condensation occurs when a surface is cooler than the dew point temperature of the air next to the surface. At this temperature, the air becomes saturated with water. This is basic equivalent to 100% relative humidity. When condensation occurs, mold and decay are very likely. Mold can grow when the air is damper than about 80% relative humidity. To help locate potential problem spots , use the following calculator to determine temperatures where condensation, decay and mold may occur on surfaces exposed to outside summer air. Then look for locations in and around the house that are cooled below these temperatures. A critical situation seems to occur quite often when the summer thermostat setting is set below the condensation temperature of the outside air. To prevent condensation and the potential for mold, mildew or rot, either warm the surface or lower the relative humidity.
In the calculator, you may either select an area with similar climatic conditions to your area, or you may directly enter the ambient air temperature in F or C degrees and the relative humidity percentage. If you are unsure of the relative humidity, you can determine it with our Dew Point And Relative Humidity Calculator. Here is more information of Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, Réaumur, and Rankine Temperature Conversion. Click on Calculate for results. The values shown indicate the potential threshold for condensation when surface temperatures are below this value; and the threshold for potential mold and mildew indicates that if the surface temperatures are below this value, there is a strong risk for growth. Our data and formulae are from information supplied by ASHRAE (The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers).
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Unit
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Number
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Required Data Entry
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| Select An Area |
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| Temperature (40 - 120 °F) |
°F °C Degrees
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| Relative Humidity (1 - 100%) |
Percent
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Calculated Results
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Condensation Threshold Temperature
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°F Degrees
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Condensation Threshold Temperature
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°C Degrees
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Mold and Mildew Threshold Temperature
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°F Degrees
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Mold and Mildew Threshold Temperature
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°C Degrees
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Updated 8.17.11
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