Condensation and mould are typically more common in winter as households are less inclined to ventilate their homes and are tempted to seal in the heat, resulting in a rise in humidity levels due to lack of ventilation.
This causes condensation – liquid water that collects on walls, windows and ceilings. Kitchens and bathrooms are especially vulnerable to excess condensation, which can lead to damp problems and black mould growth.
Unsure of how to stop condensation that is causing mould on their window, one woman took to the Builders and Tradesmen Advice Group to share her dilemma.
Kim Wilson said: “Could anyone advise any tips on condensation? The window gets wet through, we have had a vent installed in the window at the top, I leave the window on the lock to ventilate and I’ve put a dehumidifier in the window also.
“It’s making the walls to the left and right corner at the bottom wet through and also gets mould underneath the bottom of the window.”
While some group members suggested the use of a dehumidifier, most recommended a better solution.
Michael Thomas said: “Positive input ventilation units are way cheaper to run than dehumidifiers and far more effective.”
Donatas Bartkevicius wrote: “Had the same problem in my house for 17 years. This year installed positive input ventilation and the problem disappeared straight away.”
Claire Hyland commented: “My friend got this installed and the same thing, instantly all the condensation disappeared. Not sure about the price but she swears by it. I’m looking at getting one installed.”
Kayla Kai said: “We recently have had one installed in our old cottage. Lived for over 25 years trying to deal with all the condensation throughout the winter months. No more condensation thankfully. Best improvement we have made for sure.”
Stewart Mitchell explained: “I fitted a PIV device about three months ago, wish I had done it sooner. It’s amazing.
“I paid £450 but it’s £350 now for the heated version (400W heater) it changed our condensation problem overnight.
“I fitted it myself, but is easy enough if you already have power in the loft. It also has settings on it for the size of the property.”
Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) works as a whole-house ventilation system that supplies fresh, filtered air into a property at a continuous rate throughout.
By removing humid air and replacing it with fresh air, PIV units help reduce condensation and in turn issues with damp and mould.
Although they are more expensive than a dehumidifier, households with these units will be free of condensation and mould.
