Operating instructions

2 . 1 C A R E & M A I N T E N A N C E G U I D A N C E
C O N D E N S A T I O N – W H A T I S I T ?
There is always some moisture in the air, even if you cannot see it. If the air gets too cold it
cannot hold all the moisture and tiny drops of water appear. This is called condensation. You
notice condensation on a cold day when you breathe out warm, moisture-laden air, or when the
mirror mists over when you have a bath.
Condensation occurs in cold weather, whether it is raining or dry. It appears on cold surfaces and
in places where there is little air movement. You should look for it in corners, near windows and
in or behind wardrobes and cupboards. Condensation often forms on north facing walls which
are not warmed by the sun.
If you do not take steps to reduce condensation it can lead to some of the common problems
associated with damp, such as mould on walls and furniture. Damp housing encourages the
growth of mould and mites and can increase the risk of respiratory illness.
R E D U C I N G C O N D E N S A T I O N
The following information has been included to give advice regarding the control of
condensation.
 Never use portable gas or paraffin heaters - one litre of burnt paraffin produces approximately
one litre of water vapour
 Where ever possible cook with lids on saucepans
 Make sure all your extract fans are operating correctly
 In very cold weather keep the heating on all the time (intermittent heating causes condensation
to form on surfaces as they cool)

In cold weather if you are out all day keep the heating on at a low setting

If using a tumble dryer ensure it is vented outside unless it is a condensing dryer

Home Owners should avoid covering radiators with clothes so that the system operates as
efficiently as possible.
If condensation does occur then the following procedures should be followed:

Heat the room

Open a window
 Open the room door
 Avoid placing large items of furniture against the external walls as pockets of trapped air can
lead to serious surface condensation and mould growth forming on both the wall and furniture.
Remember that it is cheaper to reduce the production of water vapour than it is to compensate
for it by turning up the heating.