How to reduce condensation:
Practical Tips for Tenants.
Cold weather during the winter months can often create problems with condensation. Left untreated this can lead to the more serious issues of mould and rot.
What is Condensation?
Condensation is the appearance of water on cold surfaces. It occurs where moist air comes into contact with air, or a surface, which is at a lower temperature. Water produced from condensation is generally noticeable where it forms on non-absorbent surfaces (i.e. windows or tiles) but it can form on any surface and it may not be noticed until mould growth or rotting of material occurs.
Reduce moisture
Condensation is caused by excess moisture in the air hitting colder surfaces, so if you want to reduce it appearing, slash moisture levels at home. When you cook, put a lid on pans and keep the kitchen well ventilated by installing an extractor fan or keeping the window open. Similarly, when you take a bath or shower, keep the room well ventilated to allow steaming air to escape through a window or vent. Remember to keep the door closed to avoid moisture escaping to other parts of the house. Where surfaces attract moisture, wipe them down to get rid of the excess damp.
Dry clothes outside
As winter beckons, we may be more tempted to dry wet clothes indoors on radiators, but doing so creates higher moisture levels in the air, contributing to condensation. Try to hang your washing outdoors as much as possible during winter. Additionally, if you use a tumble dryer to dry clothes, make sure that this is vented to the outside to allow moisture to escape.
Allow air to circulate
Allow air to circulate in parts of the home where it may otherwise remain stagnant. Regularly open cupboards, drawers and wardrobes, for instance, to give them an airing and don't overfill them. Create a gap between furniture and walls to stop air from getting trapped and causing condensation to form.
Tackling mould and damp
If you notice mould forming, you may need to buy specialist products to remove this effectively. Tackle this as soon as mould appears, so that it doesn't worsen, which may make it harder to remove. For problems associated with rising damp or penetrating damp, it's essential that your Letting Agent is informed via the maintenance/repair dropdown under Tenants.