Once again looking for solutions with condensation anbd heat failure.

Eupterus

The one who takes a different path.
Jul 22, 2007
1,131
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31 Spooner St. Quahog, RI.
Every time the heat fails, there's water on the windows/ water condensing. I realize this is because the room temperature is colder then the aquariums.
Thermastat is set at 70F and yet rela room temps are more in the range of 55-60F.

I can't do anything about fixing the heating failures because the landlord is abusive so we are not on speaking terms. Knowing the landlords, they won't fix the heat, they'll just make me get rid of the tanks if I ever say anything. And even if the aquariums were gone and they knew such cold temps make me less functional because I'm huddled under a blanket, they don't care.

So that leaves me with covering my tanks to avoid water condensation every time the heat fails. Which obviously will happen on a regular basis.
I have removed power filters and I have fitted every tank with total cover with plexiglass lids. I even tied my plants together and put tape and plastic bags around the bases.

And yet when I woke u[p this morning, the windows were once again covered in dripping water.

The only thing I can think of is the water is getting out where the plexiglass lids are curling at the edges. So...expensive glass/acrylic lids with flip tops?.Even if I set the tanks at 70F, that's still much warmer then the 55F room temps.

Then I have the issue of putting automatic feeders on each tank when we go away for three weeks in Dec. This will be difficult if each tank is covered up to avoid water condensation from heating failures.:duh:
 
interesting...i have two suggestions to cut back on the condensation...
1) dehumidifier
2) read some stuff in this link (i know you are in VT and this site is for ME but the ideas are similar) when you are done reading that document and have done everything....contact a lawyer
 
If the temperature is like 20 degrees colder outside the windows then water will always condensate on the warmer side just like a cold drink in a glass. But depending on how many tanks you have per square feet of room humidity does play role. Make sure your using glass snug covers with the rear plastic spacer cut out to fit your filter, this so the water will drip back inside.

Ask to meet with the land lord and let him know you have no heat, be polite and keep him focused on the issue of no heat not your aquariums. Then after he refuses, hopefully not, tell him you have pictures and will have to report it to your local housing board. I had my daughter report her land lord for a leaking ceiling and they took care of the issue right away. If he is being threatening hide a video camera in your front room (legal for security) and let him give you the rant, then report the video to the police.
 
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Try setting up a fan, and have it blow on the windows. It won't help with the excess humidity, but may keep the condensation from forming.

Also you could plexiglass your WINDOWS instead of the tank. That will keep the inside surface of the window warmer, then you won't have a condensation buildup. Also you will keep more heat in the house.

However ultimatly the heat needs fixed. Sorry you have a crummy land lord. Mine have always been wonderful. Recently I bought a home, and the guy in charge of keeping it fixed up (me!) seems to be pretty lazy, and doesn't want to spend too much money on it!!! Fortunatly there really aren't any problems with it.
 
I don't know the whole story...but...

If you are used to being in a newer house with good windows and you are now in an older house with single pane windows or even poor dual pane ...yes, you're going to have condensation. roll up some old towels and place them at the bottom of the windows.

Minimizing water agitation will help a little by reducing evaporation. Lowering the water temps of the tanks even a couple degrees (if you can) will help too.

Consider window insulation kits. you'll have to buy them yourself, but it'll make a big diff in comfort and heating bills.
http://www.amazon.com/3M-2141W-Indoor-5-Window-Insulator/dp/B00002NCJI


and - Get the heat fixed:

http://www.healthvermont.gov/regs/Rental_Housing_Code.pdf

see page 9

The phone for VT state housing authority is 802-828-3295



Again, I don't know your situation..but I'd be moving if I had an abusive landlord (once my lease was up).
 
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