Bathroom Window (Drain) Mystery

[kaneohe]

We have a bathroom with shower next to exterior wall. Window is about 5 yrs old double-pane type. A few yrs ago I noticed a trail of what looked like water droplet stains from one of the drain holes in the exterior frame of the window. I wicked out the water by sticking a piece of compressed paper towel. The water kept accumulating and I kept wicking. After many months the accumulation seemed to stop but recently has started again.
I don't think there is much, if any, direct spray to the interior of the window or the small "shelf" there, just condensation. How does the water get to the drain hole and why does it accumulate or is this normal?

[IBWino]

The drain holes extend from the exterior to the track on the inside of the window to allow condensation/water to drain. The openings on the inside of the window may be hidden from direct view, but you can verify them by pooring a small amount of water into the track and ckecking outside to see if the water drains out.

[kaneohe]

IBW.....appreciate the response. Sounds like it's normal then? .....so the reason that it stopped may be related to the season (warmer and less condensation)??

[IBWino]

kaneohe,
Yes, I believe it is normal, especially for a bathroom window where there may be significant condensation in cooler weather.

[WM]

Yes, this sounds normal. We had new windows installed a few years ago and I remember the installer pointing out the drain holes and saying not to worry if there was some water draining out.

[kaneohe]

Thanks, IBW and WM. Guess I'll find go something else to worry about then.