Monday, 28 January 2013

The Reason Why Condensation Forms

Condensation is the water produced when warm moist air or steam meets a cold surface such as windows, walls or floors.  It is sometimes so bad that householders believe their windows leak or that their house is structurally damp.

Condensation is often a problem in older non-thermally efficient houses or newer houses where doors and windows are more draught proof than in older properties or where there is central heating installed and there are no or fewer chimneys.

Condensation can cause mould growth on walls,ceilings and floors and can damage clothes and furnishings.  Controlling it is a matter of reducing sources of water vapour to a minimum and finding the right balance between heating and ventilation in your particular home etc

Here are some ways to help you control condensation

MAIN CAUSES OF CONDENSATION

  • Boiling Kettles and saucepans.
  • Washing and drying clothes.
  • Bathing and showering.
  • Using paraffin and flueless gas heaters.
  • An over occupied property.
 TO CONTROL CONDENSATION
  • When washing and drying clothes or cooking, keep kitchen door shut and open window.
  • When bathing and after bathing, keep bathroom door shut and window open
  • Air your house every day.  Every window in the house should be open for at least 10 – 15 minutes each day except in the coldest weather.
  • Have bedroom windows slightly open at night,(ie on the security night latch lock position) even the breath of a sleeping person contains a lot of water vapour.
  • Take advantage of dry, sunny days to give your house a good airing; and don’t forget the cupboards
  • Use extractor fans where fitted.
  • NEVER block up existing air bricks, flues or ventilators.  THIS COULD BE DANGEROUS. As they may be providing Air Combustion for a heating appliance/s. Ask a qualified Gas/Oil/ Solid Fuel/Paraffin/etc. engineer if they can be removed!
  • If you use paraffin or flueless gas heaters, keep the windows open a little (every gallon of paraffin burned produces 1¼ (6 litres) gallons of water!)
  • Keep your house warm (consistent with fuel economy requirements) even if you are out during the day.

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