Interaction Of Temperature And Humidity; Effect In Living Areas - KALEAS KlimaDetector Operating Instructions Manual

KlimaDetector ENGLISH

Interaction of temperature and humidity

If air contacts a colder surface (e.g. a wall or window pane) with a tempera-
ture the same as or below the dew point, the water vapor in the air con-
denses and precipitates on the surface as fog. This effect can be observed,
for example, on fogged panes of glass or mirrors.
The surface is dampened by very fine drops of water and becomes moist –
the ideal breeding ground for mildew.
The following is a graphic illustration of the relationship between air tem-
perature, dew point and related condensation, as well as the risk of mildew:

Effect in living areas

In well-insulated living quarters there is very little air exchange. The quantity
of air is limited and can absorb only a certain amount of water. Breathing,
evaporation caused by cooking, plants and humidifiers further add to the
inherent moisture of the air,
thus increasing the dew point. The smaller the difference between the dew
point and the surface temperature of objects and walls, the greater the risk
is that water vapor will condense into droplets.
Frequently minor differences in temperature between the wall and ambient
air will suffice for water to condense on walls. The walls will become damp.
If a wall's surface temperature is even lower than the dew point (e.g., due
to points of weak thermal insulation), moisture formation is unavoidable.
Mildew can form on outside walls or in poorly ventilated areas such as be-
hind doors, cupboards, curtains, in the basement, etc. where there is no air
circulation and a local microclimate develops.
Since spores of the mildew fungus can enter the air and be inhaled, mildew
poses a health risk. Allergic reactions, respiratory diseases, infections and
symptoms of poisoning in addition to unpleasant odors can result from mil-
dew infestation.
© KALEAS GmbH & Co. KG
21