How to Avoid Condensation

At this time of year, condensation can be a frequent occurrence in all properties.  As all Landlords and tenants know, it is important to monitor condensation, as excess water within a property is rarely a good thing!

What is condensation?

Condensation is the water produced when warm, moist air or steam meets a cold surface – such as windows, walls or floors.

Condensation is not a rare problem. Many homeowners have experienced this nuisance. In order to control condensation and mould, all rooms need to be well ventilated and any condensation formed needs to be mopped up or removed.

Condensation is easy to create and tricky to get rid of, however, by following these simple tips, you can avoid the nasty mould maker…

Tip 1 – THE BASICS:

Try to open the windows in your home every day. When the weather permits, consider keeping a window open at night to maintain airflow.

Tip 2 – HEATING:

Keep your house at a constant temperature (at least 15˚c in cold weather) in line with your fuel economy requirements. This applies even if you are out in the evening or during the day.

Tip 3 – BATH TIMES:

When bathing, and after bathing, keep your bathroom door closed and the window open. Use an extractor fan within the bathroom.  If the bathroom does not have a window, then fitting a good quality, powerful extractor fan is an excellent investment.

Tip 4 – AERATION:

Never cover or block any air vents. Not only will this increase the likelihood of condensation but it could also be dangerous. Following this; don’t allow your furniture to cover any air vents. Always leave a gap between any furniture and the wall.

Tip 5 – KITCHEN CONDENSATION:

When cooking in the kitchen or drying clothes, keep the kitchen door shut and open a window. Always use the extractor fan, if one is fitted, and keep the lids on all pans when cooking.

Tip 6 – DRYING WASHING:

When the weather is dry, always try to dry your washing outside. If the weather is not permitting drying outside, try to refrain from drying your washing on your radiators! This will only create water vapour. Instead, place washing on a dryer rack, in a cooler room, and close the door. Always ensure your tumble dryer is properly ventilated by using the pipe provided with the machine.

DEALING WITH CONDENSATION AND MOULD:

Unfortunately, even if you follow all of these tips, there is still a chance that condensation could creep its way into your home!

If this has happened, here are some measures you can take to prevent any further problems:

·        Always mop up condensation on window sills, panes, and cold surfaces as soon as it appears.

·        Carefully, wash off any mould that appears on any walls and ceilings as a result of condensation. Use any household ‘mould and mildew remover’, but pay particular attention to walls behind furniture. Always allow surface to dry fully before returning furniture to original positions.

·        Brush off any mould that appears on furniture or clothing, and air thoroughly.