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
- 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?
- Humidifiers: Add moisture to the air.
- Fish Tanks Without Lids: Increase evaporation.
- 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
- 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
- Dorset Cost of Living Help: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/cost-of-living-help
- Shelter: www.shelter.org.uk
- Citizens Advice: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
- Magna Housing Association: www.magna.org.uk/your-home/repairs/damp-condensation-and-mould
- Email: contactus@magna.org.uk | Call: 0800 358 6025
- Aster Group: www.aster.co.uk
- Call: 0333 400 8222
- Energy Advice and Insulation Funding:
- Healthy Homes Dorset | Call: 0300 003 7023
- LEAP | Call: 01202 612726