Dorset Council Tenants Advice Booklet Condensation & Damp

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Contents

  1. What causes condensation?
  2. Do’s and don’ts
    • Heating
    • Ventilation
    • Insulation
    • Housekeeping
  3. What else creates moisture and can lead to condensation?
  4. Checklist and action plan
  5. Help and assistance

Disclaimers

  • Websites in this booklet are not endorsed by Ridgewater Energy or Dorset Council.
  • Tips and advice may not apply to every home; seek professional advice when unsure.
  • Obtain landlord permission before making changes to your property.
  • Information is correct as of October 2024.

What Causes Condensation?

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface, like:

  • Windows
  • Tiles
  • Toilet cisterns
  • Mirrors
  • External walls

This results in water droplets, which can lead to:

  • Black mould (potential health hazard)
  • Damage to furniture, clothes, and decorations

Condensation affects all property types:

  • Modern homes: Often well-insulated but poorly ventilated.
  • Older homes: Poorly insulated, making them harder to heat consistently.

Did You Know?

  • A family of four produces 30–40 litres of water weekly from breathing.
  • Drying clothes indoors can add 10–15 litres of moisture weekly.
  • Showering, bathing, and washing add 20 litres of moisture weekly.

Do’s and Don’ts

Heating

  • Maintain temperatures between 18–21°C.
  • Keep radiators and heaters clear of obstructions.
  • Warm the room before opening windows to help moisture escape.
  • Use thermostats, timers, and radiator valves for control.

Ventilation

  • Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Open windows to release moist air and let fresh air in.
  • Keep trickle vents open on windows.
  • Ensure furniture is at least 100mm away from walls for airflow.

Insulation

  • Check your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC):
    www.gov.uk/find-energy-certificate
  • Loft insulation should be at least 300mm thick.
  • Use reflective foil behind radiators.
  • Draught-proof doors and windows.

Housekeeping

  • Dry clothes outdoors whenever possible.
  • Use saucepan lids to reduce steam.
  • Vent tumble dryers to the outside.
  • Wipe condensation off windows and sills daily.

Bonus Tips:

  • Rubbing washing-up liquid or a cut potato on windows can help prevent condensation.
  • Use a dehumidifier if moisture levels are high.

What Else Creates Moisture?

  1. Humidifiers: Add moisture to the air.
  2. Fish Tanks Without Lids: Increase evaporation.
  3. Gas Heaters: Produce as much moisture as gas burned.
  4. Kettles: Create unnecessary steam.
  5. Baths and Showers: Generate high levels of steam.

Checklist and Action Plan

  • Ensure extractor fans work properly; report broken fans to your landlord.
  • Use saucepan lids when cooking.
  • Avoid drying clothes indoors.
  • Check for adequate loft insulation.
  • Minimize clutter to improve airflow.
  • Keep a record of energy usage to understand costs and identify savings.

Help and Assistance