Condensation calculator

Condensation forms on any surface at or below the dew point: cold windows, cold-water pipes, basement walls and concrete slabs. Paint and coatings makers also ask for the surface to be at least 5 °F (3 °C) above the dew point. DewPointCalc starts this page with a 70 °F room at 40% humidity and a 45 °F window.

Air reading

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    The dew point is about 44.6 °F, so the glass is only 0.4 °F above it: on the edge of fogging and far too close for painting.

    How the dew point calculator works

    DewPointCalc uses the Magnus formula with the Alduchov and Eskridge constants a = 17.625 and b = 243.04 °C. With the air temperature T in °C and relative humidity RH, it computes γ = ln(RH/100) + a·T/(b + T), and the dew point is b·γ/(a − γ). Going the other way, RH = 100·exp(a·Td/(b + Td) − a·T/(b + T)). Absolute humidity comes from the saturation vapour pressure, 6.112·exp(17.67·T/(T + 243.5)) hPa, times RH × 2.1674 divided by the temperature in kelvin. A surface at or below the dew point gets condensation; for painting, keep it at least 5 °F (3 °C) above.

    Dew point comfort chart

    Dew pointFeelsNotes
    Below 40 °F (4 °C)Very drydry skin and static are likely, especially indoors
    40–54 °FComfortablepleasant for most people
    55–59 °FSlightly humidstill comfortable for most, a little sticky for some
    60–64 °FHumidsticky; most people notice the moisture
    65–69 °FMuggyuncomfortable, sweat evaporates slowly
    70–74 °FOppressivevery uncomfortable; take care with exercise
    75 °F (24 °C) and upMiserabledangerous for strenuous activity

    Dew point at 70 °F by humidity

    Relative humidityDew point
    20%27.1 °F
    30%37.1 °F
    40%44.6 °F
    50%50.5 °F
    60%55.5 °F
    70%59.8 °F
    80%63.5 °F
    90%66.9 °F

    Frequently asked questions

    How do I stop condensation on windows?

    Lower the indoor humidity with ventilation or a dehumidifier, or warm the glass with better glazing or air flow.

    What is the 5 degree rule for painting?

    Many coatings specifications require the surface to be at least 5 °F (3 °C) above the dew point so moisture does not form under the coating.

    Why do cold-water pipes sweat in summer?

    The pipe is colder than the dew point of the humid air, so water condenses on it. Insulation keeps the surface warmer.

    Is DewPointCalc free?

    Yes, with no sign-up or ads, and your readings stay in your browser.

    How accurate is the result?

    The formula is accurate to about 0.4 °C; most home hygrometers are only accurate to 2–5% RH, which matters more.

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