Contents
- What causes condensation?
- Do’s and don’ts
- Heating
- Ventilation
- Insulation
- Housekeeping
- What else creates moisture and can lead to condensation?
- Checklist and action plan
- Help and assistance
Disclaimers
- The websites printed in this booklet are not endorsed by Ridgewater Energy or BCP Council.
- Information has been collated from a range of sources, including, but not limited to: National Energy Action, Gov.UK.
- Tips and advice stated in this booklet are suggestions and may not be applicable to every home. Seek professional advice if unsure and always follow manufacturers’ guidelines when using any product.
- Always obtain landlord permission, or determine what your landlord’s responsibilities are, before proceeding with any work.
- Website links may be updated periodically; try searching the relevant words in Google to find the new website link.
- Information stated in this booklet is correct at the time of print (October 2024).
What Causes Condensation?
During the autumn and winter, many homes experience condensation. This happens when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, like:
- Windows
- Tiled areas
- Toilet cisterns
- Mirrors
- External walls
This results in water droplets forming on those surfaces, which can lead to smelly black mould. Mould can cause health issues and damage items like clothes, furniture, shoes, books, and decorations.
Condensation can occur in any property:
- Modern Homes: These may be very well insulated and heated but lack sufficient ventilation.
- Older Homes: These may have good ventilation but may not be insulated well enough to maintain warmth.
Do’s and Don’ts
Heating
- Maintain Temperature: Keep the temperature between 18–21°C. Avoid letting the temperature drop below 15°C, as condensation forms on surfaces below this threshold.
- Remove Obstructions: Keep radiators and heaters free from obstructions like furniture.
- Warm the Room: Ensure rooms are warmed before opening windows to allow moisture to escape.
- Storage Heaters: Use input, output, and boost controls effectively (guide).
- Thermostat Control: Use room thermostats, timers, and radiator valves to control heating (guide).
Ventilation
- Drying Clothes: If drying indoors, use a well-ventilated room with the window open and door closed.
- Extractor Fans: Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, keeping doors closed during use.
- Furniture Placement: Keep furniture at least 100mm (4 inches) away from walls to allow airflow.
- Trickle Vents: Ensure vents on windows remain open and unobstructed.
Insulation
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Check your property’s EPC to see what insulation it has (find yourEPC).
- Radiators: Use reflective foil behind radiators to reflect heat back into the room.
- Loft Insulation: Ensure loft insulation is at least 300mm (12 inches) thick.
- Draught-Proofing: Seal gaps around windows and doors, or apply shrink-to-fit window film.
Housekeeping
- Drying Clothes: Dry clothes outdoors whenever possible.
- Cooking: Use saucepan lids to reduce steam.
- Tumble Dryers: Vent tumble dryers to the outside.
- Condensation: Wipe condensation off windows and sills daily.
- Bonus Tip: Rubbing washing-up liquid or a cut potato on windows can help prevent condensation.
What Else Creates Moisture and Can Lead to Condensation?
- Humidifiers: Add moisture to the air unnecessarily.
- Fish Tanks Without Lids: Increase evaporation rates.
- Gas Heaters: Produce as much moisture as gas burned.
- Kettles: Create unnecessary steam.
- Baths and Showers: Generate high levels of steam.
Checklist and Action Plan
Immediate Actions
- Heating: Maintain even temperatures between 18–21°C. Avoid short heating bursts.
- Ventilation: Use extractor fans, open windows slightly, and keep vents unobstructed.
- Insulation: Check loft insulation and seal gaps around windows and doors.
- Housekeeping: Avoid drying clothes indoors and wipe down condensation regularly.
Help and Assistance
Local and National Resources
- BCP Council – Cost of Living Help:
www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/communities/cost-of-living-help - Citizens Advice:
www.citizensadvice.org.uk - Shelter:
www.shelter.org.uk
Housing Associations
- Magna Housing Association:
- Report issues: www.magna.org.uk/your-home/repairs/damp-condensation-and-mould
- Contact: contactus@magna.org.uk | Call: 0800 358 6025
- Aster Group:
- Advice: www.aster.co.uk
- Call: 0333 400 8222
Energy Efficiency Grants and Support
- Healthy Homes Dorset:
Offers insulation and heating upgrades:
www.healthyhomesdorset.org.uk | Call: 0300 003 7023 - LEAP (Local Energy Advice Partnership):
Provides free home energy advice and support:
www.ridgewaterenergy.co.uk/projects-and-services/leap | Call: 01202 612726