At this time of year, the heating goes on, we make warming stews and soups, and the washing only gets wetter on the line so is brought in to dry. While it is a privilege to be inside in the warmth, with a roof over our head during the cold wet months, condensation can be a problem, leading to mould and exacerbating allergies and breathing problems. Could a dehumidifier help to reduce your condensation? And if so, how?
What is humidity?
Humidity is a measurement used to determine how much water vapour is in the air. Warmer air can hold more moisture than colder temperatures, which is why we usually link humidity with tropical conditions. But in our homes that means that as we heat up our living spaces, the humidity is rising, too.
What does a dehumidifier do?
A dehumidifier draws the moisture out of the air and collects it in a drawer or bucket. You can get a range of dehumidifiers, from small, portable ones to bigger ones designed to run all day and constantly monitor and collect water. Some have humidity monitors (hygrometer) on them so that you can see what the humidity in your home is.
Could a dehumidifier save you money?
Domestic dehumidifiers can be bought for between £125 and £200 and promise to collect up to 12 litres of water a day. With the host of benefits of having a dehumidifier, it is very possible that having one will save you money, both in the shorter term in heating bills, and the longer term in prevention of damage to your home. If you currently have damp, consult a damp specialist to determine the cause before investing in a dehumidifier.
Where is the best place to put your dehumidifier?
The optimal location for your dehumidifier will depend on the layout of your home. If you live in a two or three-storey house, try to find a place that is central to your home without being too intrusive! A corner of a central hallway can work; the idea is that you want your dehumidifier to take moisture from all of the rooms in the house. If you live in a bungalow, small house or flat, it is a good idea to put your dehumidifier near your kitchen or bathroom; the main producers of moisture!
What should the humidity in my house be?
Recommended home humidity levels are between 40-60% in summer and 30-50% in the winter. If you have humidity of over 70% you are likely to experience the effects, for example mould and damp patches, exacerbated allergies, or even difficulty breathing for those susceptible to asthma.
What is the best way to manage humidity?
Ventilation is key, especially in the winter when you have your heating on and modern homes have windows that seal tight. Opening your windows for quarter of an hour (assuming that it is not raining) can help – or you could get a dehumidifier.
Next week we will talk about the top reasons why you should consider a dehumidifier. Follow us on Facebook or X for more!