Winter has arrived, bringing frosty mornings and cozy evenings indoors. As the temperature falls, condensation becomes a common issue in many UK homes. Although it may not seem like a big problem, it can cause mold, damp spots, and even damage to your property if not managed properly.
At All Seasons Lettings, London’s leading Guaranteed Rent Specialist, we believe prevention is better than cure. Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, these five easy hacks can help you tackle condensation and maintain a healthier home this winter. Let’s get started!
Watch our quick video below!
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Ventilation is Key
Why it helps: Proper ventilation is essential to keep moisture circulating and prevent it from settling on surfaces.
How to do it:
- Open your windows for 10-15 minutes daily, even in chilly weather.
- Use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom while cooking and showering to eliminate excess moisture.
- Landlords: Ensure extractor fans are working efficiently during property checks.
Pro Tip: Trickle vents on windows help keep the air flowing without making the room too cold.
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Keep Your Home at a Stable Temperature
Why it helps: Fluctuating temperatures encourage moisture to condense on cold surfaces like windows and walls.
How to do it:
- Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature throughout the day.
- Use a timer to keep heating on at lower settings when you’re away.
- Landlords: Consider energy-efficient heating solutions like smart thermostats to make temperature regulation easier for tenants.
Pro Tip: Insulating your walls and windows helps eliminate cold spots where condensation tends to build up.
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Dry Clothes Responsibly
Why it helps: Wet clothes release a significant amount of moisture into the air, making condensation worse.
How to do it:
- Avoid drying clothes on radiators. Instead, place them on a rack near an open window or use a tumble dryer with proper ventilation.
- Landlords: Providing tenants with outdoor drying spaces or tumble dryers can reduce indoor drying altogether.
Pro Tip: If drying clothes indoors is unavoidable, place a bowl of salt or silica gel nearby to absorb excess moisture.
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Invest in a Dehumidifier
Why it helps: Dehumidifiers work well to remove extra moisture from the air, especially in rooms that tend to get damp, like bedrooms and bathrooms.
How to do it:
- Choose a small, portable dehumidifier for flexibility. Many are energy-efficient and operate quietly.
- Use the dehumidifier in areas with moisture problems or when doing things that add moisture, like cooking or showering.
Pro Tip: Some modern dehumidifiers come with air purification features, which is an added bonus for maintaining a healthy home environment.
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Keep Furniture Away from Walls
Why it helps: Furniture pushed directly against walls traps moisture and prevents airflow, increasing the risk of damp spots and mold.
How to do it:
- Leave a small gap (2-3 inches) between furniture and walls, especially in colder rooms.
- Regularly check behind large items like sofas and wardrobes for signs of moisture or mold.
- Landlords: When staging properties, arrange furniture with airflow in mind to minimize condensation risks.
Pro Tip: Wall-mounted furniture can also reduce damp issues by allowing better circulation.
Condensation isn’t just an eyesore—it can harm your health and your property. Landlords, stay proactive with regular inspections to catch early signs of dampness. Tenants, adopting these simple habits can make your home cozier and healthier during the winter months.