Condensation in double glazed unit

[_Jay_]

I’ve noticed this condensation between an obscure double glazed unit. The water appears to be dripping from the top .
The first day I noticed it it hadn’t been raining for at least a week before and it always starts at the top.
I took the unit out and there was water in the bottom of the frame. The gaffer tape around the sealed unit all looked intact with no obvious damage.
Is the condensation starting at the top because water in the unit evaporates upwards then condenses - there is no way rain water is getting in at the top or is it possible the unit has failed somewhere near the top and this is where vapour is getting in?
I reapplied gaffer take all around the unit and refitted but it’s obviously not resolved the issue.
Thanks

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

https://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/double-glazed-windows-keeps-getting-condesation-inside.589123/

 

[ronniecabers]

Only way to solve is a new unit.

BAsically the dessicant ( in layman terms a silica gel ) within the spacer bar has become saturated and is no longer doing its job...very very common. Sealed units only have a life expectancy of 10-15 years

 

[JohnD]

Replacement units are (should be) a lot cheaper than you think.

I had several done for about £50 each. The panel is measured first, and ordered to size.

There is sure to be a local independent specialist in your area, may advertise as patio door and double glazing repairs.

Plastic windows are particularly unreliable so it is a thriving business to be in.

Try to get a personal recommendation from a sensible friend or neighbour

Mine was recommended by the window cleaner.

 

[crank39]

Plastic windows are particularly unreliable so it is a thriving business to be in.

Lol so are timber, DGUs fitted incorrectly into timber windows can have a life expectancy of 6-12 months, some repair companies refuse to glaze into timber for this reason alone

 

[JohnD]

I've seen plenty of wooden windows more than a hundred years old.

A screwdriver and a drill will replace hinges and catches.

 

[_Jay_]

Only way to solve is a new unit.

Basically the dessicant ( in layman terms a silica gel ) within the spacer bar has become saturated and is no longer doing its job...very very common. Sealed units only have a life expectancy of 10-15 years

thanks - this unit is only 3 years old. As I say there was a pool of water in the bottom the fame when I pulled the unit out. I guess this should not happen as there is a rubber gasket where the glazing meets the frame?

 

[_Jay_]

https://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/double-glazed-windows-keeps-getting-condesation-inside.589123/

thank you, to be honest I have not had this before - had old aluminum double glazed windows for many years and no issues with condensation.

 

[ronniecabers]

thanks - this unit is only 3 years old. As I say there was a pool of water in the bottom the fame when I pulled the unit out. I guess this should not happen as there is a rubber gasket where the glazing meets the frame?

If its only 3 years old it should still be under a warranty. The minimum warranty from sealed unit manufacturers is 5 years