Condensation Solutions
How to cure condensation problems, get rid of black spot moulds and mildew
Answered by Mike Davison cssw
Condensation is a complex subject, primarily ventilation is the
answer but this can be problematic in the cold eg during winter. There are lots of opinions on prevention but as a
fully trained and qualified surveyor I can confirm that every property is different. A number of solutions can work
but a lot of this is trial and error, you can try these steps out in order and you may save some money whilst
finding something that works or you can go straight for the benefits of improved home ventilation using
a heat recovery ventilation unit which in my opinion is the most cost effective
and guaranteed cure for this problem.
To stop internal domestic condensation folow these steps.
1. Do not dry washing on radiators if you have any signs of condensation in your
home.
2 Check if anything is introducing damp to the exterior of affected walls, damp
= cold = lower surface temperature and dewpoint. look especially for leaking gutters, overflows, rising damp,
etc. Correct anything found.
3. Increase ventilation where practical, IE when cooking close the kitchen door and
open the window, when showering or bathing do the same.
If this does not solve the problem you will need to look at specific types of
ventilation.
With the airtightness of newer properties and the new building regulations where new
properties must pass an air tightness pressure test, extractor fans may not be suitable, they can create a
negative pressure which stops them working effectively. PPU's or positive pressure units are great in summer but in
winter they are forcing minus degree air into your home, this can result in freezing hall landing areas.
Builders often reccomend passyfier vents, these work on the principle of air movement
and pressure changes - eg when you open and close a door, as you do not open and close the bedroom door all
night (not if you want some sleep that is) their efficiency is limited. They will help to reduce but seldom
cure condensation problems. Builders tend to reccommend them as they are easy to fit and you do not have to carry
out any complex calculations for them.
I would say the best solution is a heat recovery
ventilation unit which heats up incoming fresh air using the warm stale humid air which it exhausts at the same
time. The unit contains a matrix through which the warm humid air from your property is directed as it is
extracted to the outside. The fresh but cold external air is then pulled in accross this matrix warming it up and
giving you pre heated fresh air into your home or property. These fans can now be up to 92% efficient at heat
recovery and 90% efficient for power consumption. They efficiently combat condensation and improve air
quality within the home. Some units cost less than a lightbulb to run.
See a range of condensation
prevention equipment here
Products
to prevent condensation and mould
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