Airflow Domestic Extractor Fans

If you're like most people, you probably don't give much thought to the extractor fan in your bathroom. But if you're considering renovating your bathroom, or just want to make sure your extractor fan is in good working order, it's worth taking a closer look at these handy little appliances. In this blog post, we'll take a look at what factors you should consider when choosing an extractor fan for your bathroom and share the types of extractor fans on the market today. So whether you're looking for a new extractor fan or just want to better understand what's available, read on for more information!What Is An Extractor Fan And What Does It Do?An extractor fan is a device that helps to remove stale air from a room and circulate fresh air. They are commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens, as these are the rooms where bad smells are most likely to build up. Extractor fans work by drawing air out of the room and into a duct system, through which it is then expelled outdoors. This process helps to prevent odours from lingering in the room, and it also helps to keep the air in the room fresh and free from pollutants. In addition to helping to improve indoor air quality, extractor fans can also help to reduce moisture levels in a room, which can prevent mould and mildew from developing. As a result, extractor fans are an essential component of any home that wants to maintain a healthy indoor environment.Types Of Extractor FansThere are three main types of extractor fans available on the market, each with its own unique set of benefits and for specific locations and uses. The best extractor fan for you will largely depend on the area you install it in, and the volume of moisture that will need to be extracted. Buy Airflow iCON15 Extractor FanInline Extractor FansInline extractor fans are those which sit within the run of ducting, often in the loft space or ceiling void. Because they are less visible, many people believe that they are a better option for installations where long duct runs are necessary or for areas where large amounts of airflow are required, such as in kitchens or large bathrooms. Inline extractor fans can provide a much greater extraction rate, making them ideal for locations where serious condensation or mould problems might be an issue. Ultimately, this type of fan can be a great choice for anyone who needs to remove large amounts of moisture from their bathroom quickly and efficiently.Axial Extractor FansAxial extractor fans are designed for installation directly through an external wall, or in the ceiling on a very short duct run. Most people will picture an axial fan when they think of a bathroom extractor fan. However, axial extractor fans tend to be less powerful than inline and centrifugal extractor fans. Due to this, they shouldn't be used for situations where ducting will run over 2 metres. But, they should be more than up to the job for a standard-sized family bathroom. So, if you're looking for a dependable and easy-to-install extractor fan, an axial model might be the right choice for you.Centrifugal Extractor FansWhen it comes to bathroom extractor fans, centrifugal fans are far more powerful than your average axial fan. Centrifugal fans work by drawing air into the fan intake and then extracting it at a 90-degree angle. This allows for greater pressure to be generated, making it ideal for long duct runs. If you have a bathroom with no external walls, a centrifugal fan is your best bet for ensuring proper airflow. In addition, centrifugal fans often include more switching and operating options than other types of fans. So if you're looking for a fan that can withstand heavy use and get the job done right, a centrifugal fan is your best bet. How To Pick The Right Extractor FanWhat's the point of having an extractor fan in your bathroom if it's not going to do its job properly? Whether you're looking to replace an old extractor fan or install one for the first time, it's important to choose the right model for your needs. However, if you’re short on time and are looking for the top extractor fans collection, take a look at this top-notch collection of Airflow extractor fans that are sure to be the best fit for your bathroom! This guide will help you figure out which extractor fan is right for you and what to look for. So, whether your bathroom is plagued by unpleasant odours or just needs some extra ventilation, read on!Buy Manrose XF150AP kitchen extractor fanOperating StyleWhen considering which bathroom extractor fan to buy, it's important to think about how you want it to operate. Do you want to turn it on manually, or have it set to turn on automatically when someone enters the room? Some fans have timers, so they'll turn off a set time after the lights. Finally, some extractor fans have a Passive Infrared Sensor (PIR) that detects moisture in the air and will turn the fan on and off accordingly. So, operating style is definitely something to consider when making your purchase.Air Exchange RateThe air extraction rate is an important factor to consider when looking for the best bathroom extractor fan. This rate is measured in 'Litres per Second' (l/s) or 'Metres Cubed per Hour' (m³/hr) and refers to the amount of air that the fan can remove when operational. Building regulations state that a fan must be able to extract a minimum of 15L/s in a standard domestic bathroom, so most models will have this covered. However, for larger or well-used bathrooms, a higher extraction rate might be necessary.Fixed Vs Gravity GrillesFixed grilles are attached to the wall or ceiling and do not move. This makes them quieter than gravity grilles, which have slats that open and close during the extraction process. However, because they are not constantly moving, air can sometimes seep through the slots in a fixed grille. Gravity grilles, on the other hand, are designed to prevent backdrafts when not in use. But because they are constantly moving, they can be noisier than fixed grilles—especially if they are located beneath a bedroom window. So which is the best type of bathroom extractor fan for you? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a quiet fan, go for a fixed grille. But if you're more concerned about preventing backdrafts, then a gravity grille might be a better choice.Decibel LevelYou might not realise it, but some extractor fans can be pretty noisy. This can definitely be an issue, especially if the noise is loud enough to disturb your neighbours. Or, if you have children and tend to shower after their bedtimes. Additionally, if you are susceptible to noise yourself, then you know how big of an inconvenience this can be. But did you know that there are many low-noise models available? In fact, most manufacturers provide a decibel level so that you have an idea of how noisy the unit is. The Best Place To Put An Extractor FanThe ideal place for your bathroom extractor fan depends on your specific type of fan and the bathroom zones it is compatible with. Read on to get an idea about the different bathroom zones in the UK and which type of bathroom fan to place there. Buy Envirovent Silent 100 Design bathroom fan with TimerZone 0Zone 0 is the area inside a bath, basin, or shower. Any electrical fittings or appliances used in this zone must be low voltage (12 volts or less) and fully protected against partial or complete immersion in water. This means they have an IPX7 rating or higher. So, when choosing an extractor fan for your bathroom, be sure to check the ratings of the fans that are safe for Zone 0.Zone 1 And Zone 2Zone 1 and zone 2 are critical areas in a bathroom where water-resistant fittings are essential to avoid any possible damage. Any fittings used in zone 1 and zone 2 of a bathroom must be rated IPx4 or higher, which means they can withstand water spray from all directions. This includes the area above the bathtub or shower. There are two types of bathroom fans that can be used in Zones 1 and 2. The first type is a SELV fan, which uses a transformer to reduce the voltage from 240v to 12v. These types of fans are safe to use in these zones. The second type of fan that can be used in these zones is any fan that has an IP45 rating. This means that the motor and all other electrical parts are resistant to jets of water from all angles. Both types of fans are safe to use in these zones and will provide adequate ventilation for your bathroom.Zone 3 And OutsideZone 3 is considered to be a safe distance from the principal sources of water, so any extractor fan, regardless of voltage or IP rating, may be installed here. Inline fans are one option and these are installed in the loft space above the bathroom. They are connected to the bathroom via a length of ducting, and the fan itself is housed remotely, outside of the zonal area. This means that inline fans are also suitable for extracting from any bathroom zone. Best Extractor Fan SizeThe size of an extractor fan is important to consider because it will determine the airflow and efficiency of the unit. Most extractor fans come in a standard 4-inch size, which is appropriate for smaller rooms. However, some models offer a 6-inch variant for larger rooms or kitchens. Axial fans may also come in 5-inch versions, while inline fans can be found in sizes up to 8 inches. When it comes to extractor fans, size definitely matters. The main difference between all the different sizes is the extraction rate - the larger the fan blade, the more powerful the fan. If you have a large room, you'll need a bigger fan to get the job done right. So when you're choosing an extractor fan for your home, make sure you pick one that's the right size for the job.ConclusionExtractor fans are a must-have for any bathroom. Not only do they keep your bathroom smelling fresh, but they also help to keep the moisture levels down. In this blog post, we’ve outlined the different types of extractor fans and how to pick the right one for your needs. We’ve also provided some tips on where to put it and what size you need. If you have any questions or want more information, don’t hesitate to contact us. We have a wide selection of extractor fans available and would be happy to help you find the perfect one for your home.

It is very important to have correct ventilation for social housing in particular. The UK’s social housing stock will be crucial in the nation’s ambitious target to reduce its carbon emissions by 80% for 2050. This makes the push toward energy efficiency a high priority on the agenda for landlords and homeowners. Many of us have blocked our chimneys, insulated and draught-proofed our rooms, and double-glazed our windows. While this may reflect well on our energy bills, it also means that we have essentially blocked off the inlet of fresh air to our houses. In this article, Sparks will examine attempts made to improve the safety of social housing with ventilation, and whether these have been successful (based on a study and interview with Airflow Developments). The 2018 Government Social Housing Green Paper The 2018 Green Paper reviewed the established Decent Homes Standard and asked questions about whether the legislation was being properly enacted. The Decent Homes Standard originated in 2004 and set a minimum standard for the quality of UK housing. It stated that all houses must be in an adequate state of repair and have reasonably modern services and facilities. The 2018 paper aimed to update these vague standards and give social housing owners real targets to aim for. This Paper set the ambitious target of breaking down inequalities in the social housing sector and turning them into communities. The previous standards had to be updated as there is set to be a massive increase in the amount of UK social housing. The government has committed to delivering more than 300,000 homes per year by the mid-2020s. The Green Paper aims to empower the residents of social housing. They will be given the right advice if they need to make a complaint - and have it resolved quickly and effectively. Empowering tenants has two great social benefits. It will make them feel less marginalised and happy with where they live, and will also increase the levels of safety and decency of their homes.Buy Airflow Ventilation Fans at Sparks Improvements in social housing - have we swapped efficiency for safety? The 2004 Decent Homes Standard Act improved social housing tenants living standards to a reasonable degree. Many social housing owners invested heavily in insulation and higher-quality windows in order to implement higher living standards for their tenants. The Green Paper found that progress was still being made on this front and that the number of ‘non-decent’ homes had dropped down from 20% in 2010 to 13% in 2016. However, there have been underlying problems with these ‘upgrades’. Whilst many have benefited tenants’ thermal comfort and reduced fuel bills, these homes are also becoming increasingly airtight. If ventilation is not duly considered, then this can negatively impact indoor air quality and leave social housing more prone to damp and mould. Without effective ventilation, the very fabric of a building may deteriorate, which results in time-consuming and costly remedial work for social housing providers. Airborne pollutants also come about as a result of tightly insulated homes, and dry humid indoor air. There is a range of pollutants found in British homes, including Carbon Monoxide, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which pose a real risk to occupant health. They can aggravate or cause major conditions such as cancer, asthma, heart disease and even obesity. All these have been linked to poor air quality, which can be tackled with proper ventilation. A case study in PIV ventilation for social housing: Havebury Housing Havebury Housing Partnership embarked on a refurbishment programme endeavour, using Envirovent’s PIV system. They combined upgrades such as double-glazing, cavity wall and loft insulation with Envirovent’s PIV units. Envirovent provides a whole range of efficient ventilation solutions, which can improve the indoor air quality of social housing or any housing stock. While we do not have the PIV ventilation systems from Envirovent on our website, we can bring them in provided there’s an interest in them (you can simply leave a comment or send us an email about your project and needs). Utilising Envirovent’s PIV system, Havebury has achieved a carbon emission reduction of 56% over the last 16 years, decisively preventing the spread of mould and condensation. Getting the right type of ventilation for your housing stock It would be wise to remember that preventing condensation and mould problems is far easier, quicker and cheaper than curing them. Ventilation for social housing should never be an afterthought. Condensation and mould can seriously take their toll on the health of those living in the affected property, which is why clean air matters so much. Airflow Developments also make the popular iCONstant dMEV fans, suitable for any wet room in the home. It helps eliminate the problems of condensation and mould growth by continuously extracting the damp, moist air that is the source of the problem. Envirovent's PIV Units have proven to be very popular amongst housing stock across the nation. This is thanks to their eco-friendly characteristics and the company’s proven track record in providing eco-efficient ventilation.Buy the Airflow iCONstant dMEV Ventilation Fan

Problems caused by bad air quality in our indoor environments can be devastating. Recently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) published a report that showed that the air we breathe has become polluted with cancer-causing substances. The mixture of exposure to indoor and outdoor pollution has led to 6 million people dying annually. Considering that people now spend up to 90% of their time indoors, it is likely that indoor pollution played a significant part in this terrible statistic. What are the causes of indoor pollutants? Many factors contribute to poor levels of indoor air quality. Outdoor air gains entrance through windows, doors and the general ‘leakiness’ of buildings that are not well insulated. One of the main culprits is biologically produced pollutants. People release pollutants through their normal metabolic process. They also use products and appliances that emit toxins on a daily basis. The appliances we commonly use at work or home are a significant source of pollution. These include cookers, boilers and portable gas or paraffin heaters. These items are very damaging to the quality of indoor air that we breathe. Condensation is one of the largest causes of dampness in indoor areas, and can eventually lead to the growth of mould. The health problems associated with mould must be emphasised: they can lead to a litany of ailments. Prolonged exposure to high levels of indoor dampness can reduce lung function and cause chronic health problems such as asthma. If those who already suffer from asthma are exposed to dampness, they have an increased likelihood to develop more severe symptoms. Mould can lead to various other medical conditions, such as pneumonia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a considerable proportion of the world’s 300 million cases of childhood asthma is attributable to indoor dampness and mould. We here at Sparks are sure you’ll agree air pollutants must be effectively dealt with. This needs to be done before they can inflict damage to our homes and health. Residential ventilation solutions offered by Airflow Thankfully, Airflow offers a wide range of residential solutions. They are one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of ventilation products for your home or property. They have been making innovations in ventilation for decades - since they started out in 1959. Their first product that made waves in the industry was the Loovent, which went on to become a best-seller. This range has sold over 1 million units and is still extremely popular to this day (it has been updated with modern features now, of course). The Loovent Eco is a powerful centrifugal fan that boasts a modular design. This makes the installation and maintenance of the device very easy. Furthermore, they produce minimal sound levels and operate with great eco-efficiency, powered by a low-energy motor. The Loovent Eco comes in versions that include a pull-cord, humidity timer, motion sensor (with timer), a delayed start of two minutes and two-speed settings. This product is ideal for long stretches of ducting, as it will maintain pressure over the full length of a duct run. It is recessed or surface mounted so can be mounted practically anywhere you desire. The QuietAir is another successful range developed by Airflow, with the QT100 being a real stand-out in terms of popularity. The QT100 is an axial extractor fan that combines contemporary design with ultra-low noise levels. It was awarded the Quietmark in 2014 by the Noise Abatement Society as it operates at a lowly 25 decibels (dB). Its features include a long-life ball-bearing motor with 40,000 hours of operating time. It can run at two speeds and has an adjustable overrun timer. Furthermore, it uses a high-efficiency impeller that helps to keep running costs low; it only has a power consumption of 5 watts.Buy Airflow Quietair Fans Then, there is the iCON range - one of the first products to introduce the plug-in module concept to the extractor fan market. iCON’s revolutionary design ensures effective ventilation; the low-energy fans are quiet and use a minimal amount of energy. They also come in Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) versions, which provide extra safety and peace of mind at home. The design includes the option for installing a plug-in module, which enables you to adjust the fan to suit your specific needs. Their round, slim design means it is a breeze to install the device in either a wall or ceiling. With three versions (the iCON15, iCON30 and iCON60) they are suitable to install in any room, whether it be large or small. The enduring popularity of the iCON range led to the release of the high-tech iCONstant. The iCONstant is among the quietest extract fans on the market (with a sound level of 21 dBA) and costs less than a lightbulb to run for an entire year. You can choose from a Timer version or a Humidity Timer version of the product, depending on what you find preferable. The ‘constant’ in the name of this product is taken from its ability to constantly extract damp air. Though they can be used in any room, Airflow designed the iCONstant with toilets, bathrooms and kitchens in mind. This is because these are the areas of your home that will produce the most moisture, which could lead to damp and mould. One of the iCONstant's main purposes is to keep you healthy by maintaining clean air quality within your home.Buy Airflow iCONstant Fans ‘Extract and replace’ - how Airflow helps you keep a healthy home Airflow has always aimed to produce healthy breathing air through energy-efficient means. This is demonstrated by the history of their products, looking at the iCON60 fan, for instance. The iCON60 is the largest in its range, and designed to be compatible with larger residential spaces. They are highly efficient in areas such as residential lounges, domestic kitchens, changing areas and utility rooms. Airflow understands the importance of ‘Residential Heat Recovery’ and how it relates to people’s well-being. They know that an effective ventilation system in a dwelling will protect the occupants - and the building itself - against harmful levels of condensation. Condensation is more likely to occur in residences where large groups of people live. This is because every individual does their share of cooking, washing and bathing. With their varied range of products, Airflow provides effective ventilation with heat recovery for the supply of controlled, crisp and filtered air.Heat Recovery Fans at Sparks They manage to do this while eliminating harmful moisture and airborne pollutants. Whether you live in a house, student halls, a flat or another type of residence - Airflow will have you covered. They offer an excellent variety of ventilation products to help save you energy and - more importantly - make sure you breathe proper air, the good kind of air. They have done this for five decades now and the endurance of their brand attests to their success.

Whether we work in an office, travel for work, or work from home, residential ventilation systems are critical for our health, for we all return home and we need fresh air in our homes. At Sparks, we distribute a wide range of ventilation systems, most of which are for residential applications. In this article, we are inspired by the Residential Ventilation Systems via Airflow, and we would like to highlight the following:the importance of residential ventilation, how to choose the residential ventilation system, what are the benefits of such systems, what are the available residential ventilation systems at Sparks. The air we breathe at home needs to be of good quality, which means that we need to work on improving the air quality so that there are lower and lower levels of pollution in the air we breathe. Since the air we breathe has an impact on our health and our overall well-being, we need to analyze what are the factors that affect the quality of the air we breathe at home and how can we properly ventilate our home. Residential Ventilation is Important - Here's WhyWhy is it important for residential buildings to be properly ventilated? Especially as we live in the UK with a high level of rain and humidity, it is easy for us to close our windows and make sure we stay safe and sound inside the comfort of our own homes. However, there's the possibility of mould being formed, which leads to respiratory illnesses, allergies, and an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. Plus, we feel tired and have no appetite for life, for the quality of the air we breathe has an effect on our mental health. As we live a modern life in our modern home, it is easy to expose our home to a range of pollutants, fuel-burning combustion appliances, building materials and furnishings, and cleaning products we use to clean our home. It is recommended to have proper residential ventilation since these pollutants can remain in the air and we actually breathe in the air! When we open the window and have a proper residential ventilation system, we eliminate pollutants in the air and minimize the health risks associated with them. However, if we don't properly ventilate or if our system is leaking and there are condensation issues, mould growth can happen and pollutants will remain. In conclusion, it is critically important for there to be a proper residential ventilation system and for us to properly ventilate our home. Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right Type of Residential Ventilation for Your HomeMany people realize there's a need for proper ventilation at home but they do not know what is the right type of residential ventilation for them. Sometimes they go overboard and order an expensive yet wrong ventilation system, and there is inefficient ventilation or worse, the building and health of those in the building is affected or damaged. There are a few factors to consider in choosing the right type of residential ventilation for your home. 1. What do you need to ventilate?If you need ventilation for the bathroom, a particular residential ventilation system is required, but if ventilation is required for the kitchen, a different system is needed. Depending on the room to be ventilated and the volume of that room, particular residential ventilation systems can be recommended. 2. Is your building new or old? By this we mean, is the property you live in a new build or an existing building? Some older homes won't be able to accommodate some of the new residential ventilation systems. Some of the new builds are more airtight, and they rely upon mechanical ventilation methods. It is important to know this when considering what residential ventilation system to purchase. 3. What's the volume of air to ventilate? Depending on the volume of air that needs to be ventilated (which can be calculated based on the dimensions of the room to ventilate), different residential ventilation systems are available. The size of the system depends on the volume to be ventilated and the settings you apply to it. 4. What are the current regulations regarding residential ventilation? It is good to know what are the government requirements for residential ventilation to make sure we meet the current regulations. Furthermore, it is good to know more about the latest plans to achieve the Future Homes Standard and Future Building Standard via the UK government portal. 5. What's the cost of the residential ventilation system we need? For many, this is the first consideration, especially in these days of high inflation and increased household costs. Budget is something we can't ignore; however, a good residential ventilation system will last you for many years, so it is worth it investing in a good quality system. What are the Benefits of Good Residential Ventilation Systems?Here are some of the benefits of choosing and installing good quality residential ventilation systems:Better quality of air to breathe leads to less suffering from allergies, respiratory and skin conditions, fatigue, and other health issues.Higher quality of air means less volatile organic compounds, less radon, and a lower likelihood for mould to develop in the home. Good quality air and ventilated air in a building lead to preserving the fabric of the building and not damaging it, and there are less mould, dampness, and condensation issues. Proper residential ventilation systems at home lead to significant economic advantages, especially when a dMEV system is installed and there is mechanical ventilation with a heat recovery system. The best Residential Ventilation Systems available at SparksAt Sparks, we are delighted to distribute some of the highest-quality residential ventilation systems in the UK. The ventilation manufacturers we distribute have decades of experience in the residential ventilation industry and they operate according to the highest standards. Here are some of the best residential ventilation systems available at Sparks (bearing in mind the factors you need to consider for a residential ventilation system in your home above):Airflow Bathroom Fans: excellent fans for extracting the air in the bathroom, from the Airflow iCON range to the Aura bathroom fans. Airflow iCONstant continuous air extractor fans: quiet, dMEV fans that are extremely economical to run. Envirovent Bathroom Extractor Fans: high-quality bathroom ventilation fans from Silent fans to the Design extractor fans for extracting air in the bathroom. Envirovent ECO-dMEV continuous running fans: ideal for constant volume, continuously running decentralised extract fan. Manrose Ventilation fans for Bathroom: good quality bathroom fans for extracting moisture and pollutants, low voltage and mains voltage fans. Manrose Kitchen ventilation fans: 100mm, 125mm, and 150mm duct fans for kitchen air extraction and ventilation.If you need help with deciding what residential ventilation system you require for your home, do not hesitate to contact us. Buy Residential Ventilation Systems at Sparks

There are many guides on how to deal with condensation and mould at home, and you can never be too much in advising people what are the dangers of having mould in a domestic environment. As the temperatures outside drop, it is easy to have condensation on the windows and then mould growth in different areas in the house. Especially between the months of October and March in the UK, there's a high likelihood that condensation and mould formation would increase. If your windows look steamy or with condensation on them in the morning or sometime throughout the day, you need to deal with the problems. If you are experiencing condensation and mould on windows, walls, or ceilings, you need to determine the cause for this and also take care of the problem as soon as possible. When mould grows on the wall, on the window, or on the edges of the window or wall, you shouldn't think there's a problem with your house but rather, there may be a problem with ventilation. Immediate action needs to be taken when mould growth is detected.Keep reading to find out more concerning how you can deal with condensation and mould at home, in particular:Condensation: Though Unavoidable, it can be Taken Care of!Excessive Condensation can Lead to these ProblemsMoisture and Condensation: how to Produce Less Moisture!Preventing Mould Growth by Reducing Condensation: Ventilation!Hot - Cold - Ventilation - Let the Air Circulate!When there is Mould Growth: How to Clean MouldFurther Reading on How to Deal with Condensation and Mould at HomeCondensation: Though Unavoidable, it can be Taken Care of!What is condensation and how does it form, or what are the causes for condensation? As we live our lives in our homes, especially during the colder months of the year, condensation may appear on the window or on the wall. There's always some moisture in the air, even though we can't see it; when the air gets cold, it cannot hold the moisture and tiny droplets of water are formed on the windows - especially in the morning. This is condensation. It is nice and warm inside and it is very cold outside; it is easy for condensation to appear. When you take a shower, for example, the mirror or the bathroom tiles may have condensation since the cold surface of the mirror is hit by the air loaded with tiny water droplets. When condensation forms inside your home, it can become a problem unless you take swift action. It is unavoidable to have condensation but you can take care of it! Excessive Condensation can Lead to these ProblemsIf condensation is not taken care of swiftly, it can lead to many problems. Dampness caused by excessive condensation can lead to mould growth on the window frame, the window sill, the ceiling, the furniture, the wall, or even on the clothes. Damp and humid conditions also are the best environment for dust mites to easily multiply, thus affecting those suffering of asthma. This is why we say that, though unavoidable, we need to take swift action when we see condensation forming. Dealing with Condensation - First StepsThe first and easiest step to deal with condensation is to wipe dry the surfaces where condensation forms. For example, when you see condensation on the window or the windowsill in the morning, you can wipe these surfaces dry. You can take a dry cloth and wipe the wet surfaces clean, and then squeeze the water out in the sink. Don't be tempted to let it dry somewhere and do not put it on the heater, or else the water will go back into the air! And the second step you can take to deal with condensation is simply to ventilate the place; open the window for a bit until there is some ventilation taking place, and then the window can be closed later. Don't Forget to Ventilate!Dealing with Mould Growth: First StepsIf there is mould growth on the window, the windowsill, the wall, or any other surface, the first thing to be done is to limit the amount of condensation in the room and kill and remove the mould. Ventilation is necessary to get rid of the moisture in the air. To deal with the mould, the surfaces with mould growth need to be wiped down or sprayed with a fungicidal wash or very diluted bleach. Please follow the instructions as per the bottle of the cleaning product to make sure you do not get sick or destroy the surface to be cleaned. Moisture and Condensation: how to Produce Less Moisture!Simply by living inside your home, moisture is produced. Our breathing adds to the moisture, our activities add to the moisture, and everything we do can add to the moisture. And moisture leads to condensation, which can lead to mould growth. For example, when we sleep at night, just one single person can add up to half a pint of water to the air overnight! For example, here are some approximate statistics regarding moisture and how much it is produced:Two people at home, just by breathing, can produce up to 3 pints per day.Taking a bath or a shower can produce up to 2 pints. Drying the laundry indoors can produce up to 6 pints.Cooking and using the kettle for tea can produce up to 3 pints.Washing the dishes in the sink can lead to 1 pint of water.If we add all these together, simply by doing the normal things around the house (without ventilation), up to 15 pints of water can be produced just by two people. How can we reduce the moisture at home? Here are some tips:Dry your laundry outside. Hang your washing outside in a clean and dry place if possible, or hang it in the bathroom with the door closed and the window slightly open or the extractor fan on. If you dry your clothes indoors next to the radiator or the heater, the moisture in the air will increase. When cooking, cook with pan lids on, and turn the heat down once the water has boiled. Using a hob when cooking also helps extract the moisture, and using less water when boiling and cooking will help reduce the moisture in the air. Also, ventilate! Simply by opening the window, ventilation is produced. Instead of drying clothes inside the house, use a tumble dryer if possible. Or if you don't mind the extra cost and you have a laundromat not too far from your house, it may be worth it to pay and dry your clothes there. When running a bath, if you want to take a bath, it's best to run the cold water first and then the hot water, since this will reduce the steam by 90%. When taking a bath or a shower, always turn on the bathroom fan. Do not be tempted to keep the temperature steamy and warm in the bathroom: always ventilate! And after taking a shower, it is best to wipe clean the bath tiles, the mirror, and the shower so that less water may evaporate and become moisture in the air, leading to condensation. Preventing Mould Growth by Reducing Condensation: Ventilation!The understated free action we all can take in order to prevent mould growth by reducing condensation is ventilation. When we ventilate properly, condensation is reduced and it becomes more difficult for mould to grow. There are many whole house ventilation systems that can be set up, which can cost you a lot of money, but at the same time, simple ventilation can help and is easier to do! For example, cross-ventilating the home helps very much! Since it is so cold outside, you can slightly open one window downstairs and another upstairs, making sure the doors in between are open. Or you can open the windows in the rooms on the opposite sides of the house, making sure the interior doors to the rooms are also open. Allowing the fresh air to come in and circulate throughout the house can remove moisture. We recommend such cross-ventilation to be carried out for about 30 minutes every day. Tip: do not leave your windows open when you leave the house - this poses a security problem!Here are some other simple tips on ventilation at home:Open the trickle vents in the widows: many of the double or triple-glazed windows have trickle vents, usually located at the top side, which can be closed or open. It is recommended to keep them open during the day to allow air to circulate. Ventilate the kitchen when cooking or washing up. Simply opening the window and having the air circulate makes a great difference to condensation. Using a cooker extractor hood also helps. Use the bathroom extractor fan and make sure it runs more than the time you take a shower or a bath. Many extractor fans are affordable and they extract a lot of the moisture in the air. Open the curtains during the day, especially when opening the window, to allow the air to circulate. If the curtains are not open, condensation can happen and mould may grow. When using the shower or taking a bath, close the door and turn on the fan or open the window. When cooking in the kitchen, close the door and open the window, even turn on the hob. When the bathroom and kitchen doors are closed as different activities are taking place in those rooms, moisture cannot travel in the other rooms in the house.Do not overfill the wardrobe and cupboards and keep them at a small distance from the wall. Beds, wardrobes, and cupboards can have moisture on them and even mould growth if there's no ventilation between them and the cold surface of the wall. It is recommended to keep a small gap between large pieces of furniture and the wall. Ventilation Fans for HomeHot - Cold - Ventilation - Let the Air Circulate!Many of us love it when it is nice and warm at home, especially during the cold months of the year, so we keep the window shut and we may even appreciate the heat coming from the kitchen when cooking takes place. We need to remember that warm air can hold more moisture than cooler air, and droplets of condensation can appear on different surfaces around the house. The warmer the air is, the more moisture it can hold, like a sponge. It is best to have a medium level of heat throughout the house than to have one room extra warm and the others cold. It is recommended to keep the heat on low all day, especially in the cold months, rather than having it on full blast for several short periods during the day. If there's no heating in particular rooms, instead of keeping the doors closed, it's best to open the doors to allow some heat to enter into them and for air to circulate. Remember: the lasting cure for mould is to reduce the amount of condensation you create by using the heating, cooking, showering, etc, and by ventilating your home effectively!When there is Mould Growth: How to Clean MouldSome people do not want to ventilate nor do they turn on the fan in the bathroom during or after the shower, and the next thing you know, not only condensation happens but even more, there is mould growth. This is not the end of the world, but unless treated and removed, mould can grow and become quite dangerous to our health and the health of those in our homes. Here are some tips on how to clean mould when it grows in your home:Open the window and ventilate the room before doing anything. Chemicals may be used to remove the mould, so the fumes can be quite toxic; opening a window and turning on a vent or fan to ventilate the room is recommended. If it is too cold outside, still open at least one window to allow the air to circulate in the room. And if it is freezing cold, it's best to wait for a sunny dry day to treat the mould. Be aware that, since mould grows best in moist areas, it's best to regularly ventilate and, if you want to remove it, it's harder to do so when it is raining. Use protection when dealing with mould: facemasks, gloves, and protective eyewear. Whether you have asthma or not, it is easy to breathe in the mould spores when treating mould, so it is best to put on a facemask, gloves, and protective eyewear. The fumes of the cleaning products also can irritate your eyes, skin, and airways, so it's best to be protected. And wear a long-sleeved top and trousers to protect yourself. Read the instructions of the cleaning product. You may use bleach (low concentration) or other chemicals; before doing anything, read the instructions very carefully. Some of the cleaning products can contain harsh ingredients which, when used incorrectly, can be harmful to your health or can damage the surface you want to clean. Read the manufacturer's instructions. Never mix bleach with ammonia, for when these are mixed together, they create toxic fumes that are hazardous to health. Read the labels and, if possible, avoid combining cleaning products altogether. Throw away absorbent or porous items that are mouldy. The mould spores can get into the pores of the material and can continue to grow even after you clean that item, so it's best to throw it away. Things such as drywall, upholstered furniture, carpet, rugs, ceiling tiles, art, etc that have holes in the surface or absorb liquids, all need to be removed. If it can be washed, you can salvage it. Kill the Mould on Surfaces by choosing the right treatment. Some of the options include bleach, white vinegar, baking soda, or even dish detergent and water. The bleach needs to be diluted and properly handled. White vinegar can kill the mould as a natural treatment (especially when it is not diluted). Baking soda is also a natural option, and it also removes odour (dilute it and spray it on the surface). Finally, simply using diluted mild dish detergent and warm water with a brush can deal with mould. You can scrub the mould with soap and water to clean the surface. It is recommended to read the instructions, the way to prepare and scrub, and how to do it for each of these treatments. Properly treat the mould by spraying the solution on it and allowing it to sit for 15 minutes to one hour so it penetrates the root. Don't spray it and scrub it: spray it and wait. Treatments that are harsh, such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia work quickly. Natural treatments such as white vinegar, baking soda, borax, or tea tree oil may require longer to work. Follow the instructions and apply more than once. Scrub the surface with a stiff-bristled brush, if necessary. When all the mould is removed, it is good to scrub the area with soap and water, and even scrub it with a bristle brush. If the mould is removed simply by scrubbing it, it is good. Rinse and dry. Do not leave the area wet. It is recommended to use clean water to remove the remnants of any cleaning solutions, and then pat the area dry with a clean towel. If you are unhappy with the results, you can try the whole process again. However, if you want to try a different cleaner, it is best to thoroughly rinse the affected area to remove any remaining residue from your cleaning solution, and then let the area dry before you try again. Make sure that the area is clean after being treated. Best ventilation solutions at SparksFurther Reading on How to Deal with Condensation and Mould at HomeThe above guide is compiled from a wide variety of guides and advice leaflets put out by many entities, to which we are thankful. We are listing some of the further reading on this topic, with thanks. How to prevent damp, mould and condensation in your homeDEALING WITH DAMP AND CONDENSATIONHow to prevent condensation and mouldHow to avoid condensation and mould in your homeReducing damp in your homeHow to deal with condensation and mould in your homeHow to Kill Mold (with Pictures)Condensation and Mould Advice for TenantsControlling Damp and Condensation in Your HomeControlling condensation and mouldCondensation, damp and mouldCondensation and mould advice for tenantsControlling damp, condensation and mould