Condensation. 1

Transcription

1 Condensation 1

2 Condensation what is it? Moisture is always in the air around us, even though you can t see it. When warm moist air meets a cold surface tiny drops of water appear. The more moisture that is in the air, the more water is produced. Daily activities can create moisture in the air such as cooking, washing or taking a shower. Signs of condensation Damp and mould occurring in corners of rooms, behind furniture and in cupboards Walls and ceilings sweat with moisture Water appears on the inside of windows Clothes have a musty smell to them Is it condensation or a leak? Condensation is often the main cause for moisture in the home but it is not the only cause of damp. It can also be caused by plumbing leaks or rising damp. Signs are dampness from leaks are: It can happen year round Rain seeping through the roof because of a broken or missing tile/gutter Water around window frames Tidemarks on a damp area How it affects you A big build up of condensation can cause damp to your home and if left untreated can pose a serious problem. Mould growth and dust mites occur much more often in damp conditions which are also associated with allergic reactions. Damp conditions in your home cause damage such as rotting window frames, water stained walls and peeling plaster. In serious cases it can also damage electrics. How do I prevent condensation? There are a few simple steps you can follow to help prevent condensation in your home. General tips Wipe down window frames if they become wet with condensation. Do not place cupboards or beds against outside walls. 2 3

3 Don t overfill wardrobes or cupboards as this will stop the air circulating. Ventilation and reducing steam Open windows, use trickle vents, extractor fans or air vents, these will help moisture to escape outside and stop the air becoming stale, which is not good for your health. When cooking on a gas hob, cover pans and keep the kitchen door closed to stop moisture from circulating around the house. Ensure the extractor fan is on and a window is open if possible. If you use a tumble dryer make sure it is vented so that the air escapes outside. When drying clothes indoors close the door and open a window. After showering close the door and open the window until the moisture has gone. Heating your home Regular heating of all your home at a lower temperature is more effective than one or two rooms at a higher temperature. If you have central heating, use the thermostat and set the temperature to a comfortable level around degrees. Remember by turning the thermostat down even by 1 or 2 degrees can save you money. Do not use paraffin or bottled-gas heaters as these produce a lot of moisture. Do not place furniture in front of radiators as this will stop them from heating the room. Repairs and improvement works In most cases if you follow the steps in this booklet you should be able to keep condensation under control and it will not be necessary for us to carry out repairs. We will consider carrying out repairs if: there is widespread mould growth in a bedroom or living room. you are a resident and still have severe condensation after following the advice in this booklet. if you have bad condensation and mould in a bedroom or living room and wish us to carry out an inspection. We will not carry out works: on small areas of mould in hallways, bathrooms, toilets or kitchens If you have any further concerns or queries about condensation in your home contact us on for advice. 4 5

4 Using a paraffin or bottled-gas heater produces three pints of Cooking by gas produces three pints of Drying clothes in a tumble dryer produces up to 10 pints of Washing clothes produces one pint of An average family carrying out everyday activities produces over 26 pints of Taking a bath or shower produces two pints of 6 7

5 Rooftop Housing Group 70 High Street Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4YD Rooftop Housing Group Printed April 2014