Condensation on Remodel Cans

Status
Not open for further replies.
R

russgentile

Member
This January I observed condensation dripping from low voltage 4 inch remodel cans installed in my living room ceiling, with attic space above it. I kept the lights off until April, and now need to make a permanent fix. The ceiling is very thick and cutting the ceiling further is prohibitive. Which of the following is the correct or best course of action?:
1) replace remodel cans with bulkier IC box units from above the ceiling
2) install chicken wire over remodel cans, and continue insulation over the chicken wire
3) install automatic louver/fan at the vent openings in the attic to make more energy efficient
Please advise,
-Russ G.
 
physis

physis

Senior Member
Re: Condensation on Remodel Cans

My best guess is that this problem has nothing whatever to do with either the cans or electricity.

It might help to know a little about where condensation comes from.

The atmosphere holds water as vapor. the higher it's temperature, the more water it can hold. When the atmosphere's temperature drops, the water comes out the air and and accumulates on things.

I think you might be able to solve this problem by addressing the drafts in your attic.
 
B

bphgravity

Senior Member
Location
Florida
Re: Condensation on Remodel Cans

I would collect the water, bottle it, and sell it on street corners for $3 a bottle. ;) Are these airtight fixtures? I would guess that air is transfering between the attic and the room below.
 
petersonra

petersonra

Senior Member
Location
Northern illinois
Occupation
engineer
Re: Condensation on Remodel Cans

it seems likely that you problem is that the cans are not insulated in the attic and cold air in the attic is cooling the cans off and causing condensation.

if the cans are rated for it, some more insulation on top of them is called for. but it seems quite possible the reason for the condensation is that cans not rated for having insulation over them were used and there is no insulation above the cans at all so they are cold in the winter.

you have a couple possible solutions. all involve adding insulation over the cans. if the cans are not rated for being covered by insulation you could replace the cans, or build a barrier over top of the cans so there is air space on all sides of the cans. not sure what the code requires (I think 4 inches all sides??).

<added> i suspect your attic is well ventilated and that is a good thing. it is supposed to be cold in your attic in the winter. installing a damper to reduce the ventilation is not a good idea. you just need to keep the cans from getting cold and condensing.

[ August 17, 2005, 10:21 AM: Message edited by: petersonra ]
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top