Air control
Over the winter months, people report to Environmental Health an increase in mould and condensation in their property and many become concerned about the health effects. A damp surface provides the ideal environment for mould growth.
The three main causes of condensation are:
- Too much moisture in the air
- Lack of good ventilation
- Cool temperatures
To reduce the problem, you should increase ventilation and keep your home warm. For example:
1. Produce less moisture within the home. An average home can create an additional 26 pints of moisture a day and this moisture must go somewhere. In order to reduce the moisture in your home, use pan lids whilst cooking, run the cold water first then add the hot when filling your bath, and dry clothes outside or in a well-ventilated room with the door closed.
2. Ventilate by opening windows onto the first notch or security latch, at opposite points of the property. This will help remove the build-up of moisture. Doing this for half an hour in the morning will be beneficial. Ventilate your kitchen and bathroom when in use: open the windows and/or use an extractor fan, if you have one.
3. Improve the insulation and draught proofing of your home. This will also help keep the whole house warm and will cut your fuel bills. When the whole house is warm, condensation becomes less likely. You could be eligible for help with insulation
4. Use a thermostat to control the heating and keep the heating on at constant background temperature (minimum of 16oC), particularly in winter. Avoid swinging between hot and cold room temperatures and, when needed, programme the thermostat to a comfortable temperature (21oC). You want to heat up your walls, not the air.
Ventilation of your home is also advised to stop the spread of Covid-19.