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How to Stop Condensation in a Shipping Container

There are many reasons to hire or  buy a shipping container. They are a practical and cost-effective storage solution and provide a solid and versatile foundation for construction site welfare units, battery storage enclosures and a wide range of other applications. However, one of the few challenges you might face is condensation.

While condensation isn’t always a problem, it is certainly something to consider as it can be damaging to your belongings inside the unit if not accounted for.

What is Condensation?

This occurs when there is a meeting of two different air temperatures, regardless of whether you have a 10ft, a 20ft, or a 40ft. It is exact same process that creates the steam on a window when you breathe on a cold glass pane.

Condensation occurs when its outside walls are colder than the dew point of the air inside the unit. There isn’t much that we can do to affect the outside air temperature, so the solution to any issues must come from what we do on the inside.

Dealing with Condensation in your Shipping Container

Fortunately, there are a number of methods for managing condensation:

Ventilation

When you buy a unit, it should come with adequate ventilation as standard. Ventilation helps to reduce the difference between the inside and outside of the container and therefore reduces the chance of condensation occurring. Sometimes, however, ventilation alone is not enough, and other tactics might also be needed.

Anti-condensation Lining

Lining can be added to your shipping container to help prevent condensation drops from forming. These will essentially absorb the excess moisture in the air, meaning it can’t then cool upon meeting the outside wall.

Container linings include boards that not only reduce the moisture in the air but also have insulating properties that reduce the drastic temperature differences.

You can also purchase anti-condensation coating which can be applied to the surface of the roof to help to absorb moisture and reduce condensation.

Reducing Air Space

The more air space that you have inside your unit, the more moisture you could have. This means that if you are using your container for storage, the more that you fill it, the less likely it will be that you have problems. We also suggest that you fill it with it as much as reasonably possible to get the most value from your purchase.

Dehumidifiers

If you have a serious condensation problem, we generally recommend that you use a dehumidifier. This is plugged in (much like a small electric heater) and will extract the moisture from the air. You will need to empty it regularly or you can set up a hose system that will automatically empty your dehumidifier. You will also need to have access to a power source.

Moisture Caption Crystals or Moisture Traps

You can also use products that have been specifically made to reduce the amount of moisture in the air. Moisture caption crystals work by removing moisture from the air and turning them into a solution which is then collected in a tray that can be thrown away. These crystals are quick and easy to use and are a cost-effective way to help to fight condensation.

If you do have condensation in your unit, it is important that you take steps to reduce it. The damp caused by condensation can be damaging to your belongings and lead to the growth of mould and other fungi.

Fortunately, there are many solutions to the problem of condensation, helping extend the lifespan of your container and the items stored within.

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