Heat homes to 18-21°C to prevent mould and condensation

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 06:14 · Archive

Experts recommend heating homes to between 18 and 21 degrees celsius to prevent condensation and mould in winter.

Condensation is forming on windows across the country as winter approaches, and the problem will worsen as temperatures drop further. The moisture can damage windows and furniture, and may lead to mould growth which poses health risks.

Experts say the solution lies in maintaining adequate heating and humidity levels. Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com, said keeping a home warm helps prevent mould during the coldest months. He advised that people in good health should heat their homes to between 18 and 21 degrees celsius.

Stephen Hankinson, energy efficiency expert at Electric Radiators Direct, explained the science behind the problem. Humidity measures the water content in air, typically expressed as a percentage or in grams per cubic metre. When humidity levels become too high, excess moisture in the air condenses into droplets on cool surfaces such as windows or mirrors.

Ideal indoor humidity should be around 50 per cent, though most people cannot measure this precisely. Clear signs of excessive humidity include condensation visible on windows and mirrors. Conversely, humidity that is too low can also cause problems.

To address the issue, adjusting heating and humidity levels to appropriate ranges can make a significant difference to preventing condensation and mould growth in homes during winter.

How it is being reported

• Minimum temperature to set heating to avoid condensation and mouldEverything you need to know about why condensation may be forming on your windows, and how you can prevent it from happeningGazette & Herald · 11 Oct, 05:17
• Minimum temperature to set heating to avoid condensation and mouldEverything you need to know about why condensation may be forming on your windows, and how you can prevent it from happeningSwindon Advertiser · 11 Oct, 05:17
• Minimum temperature to set heating to avoid condensation and mouldEverything you need to know about why condensation may be forming on your windows, and how you can prevent it from happeningWiltshire Times · 11 Oct, 05:17

In this story: Ben Gallizzi · Uswitch.com · Stephen Hankinson · Electric Radiators Direct

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