CONDENSATION

PROBLEM

Condensation occurs in a dwelling when warm moist air produced by ordinary activities such as showering or cooking meets a cold surface such as an external wall or window. The moisture laden air will remain internally if ventilation does not occur and will gravitate towards the nearest cold surface where it condenses. Moisture is also naturally occurring in the air and when air temperatures drop it will release this water in droplet form.  Condensation generally occurs during cold spells of weather. It will appear on cold surfaces and areas where there is little movement; for example behind a cupboard. This will often lead to the formation of mould growth and mainly occurs in corners of rooms, or in cupboards 

REMEDY

With the correct balance of heating and ventilation, condensation can be avoided. The heating helps keep the property warm and the ventilation will enable excess moisture laden air to escape.

TIP: Improving ventilation (opening windows, trickle vents). Using the thermostat. Set it on for long periods on a low setting or have it switched to operate automatically on shorter periods for at least seven hours a day. Make sure there are no cold zones in the home by turning all radiators on.

TIP: Improving heating (constant temperature space heating).

Cover saucepans.

Dry clothing outside rather than on radiators.

Wipe away condensation as quickly as it’s spotted.

Keep window trickle vents open constantly and open windows as much as possible (especially after cooking or showering) 

Ensure extractor fans are operational

Turn on the cold tap of the bath first so that when the hot water hits its doesn’t produce as much steam.

Close doors in wet areas to stop the spread of moisture to other rooms.