As winter deepens across the UK, many households are sealing windows and turning up heating to stay warm. However, this cosy strategy can trap excessive moisture inside, leading to problematic condensation and mould growth, as highlighted in a recent report.
The Critical Rules for Dehumidifier Placement
Consumer experts at Which? have issued vital guidance to help homeowners maximise their dehumidifier's efficiency. The key advice centres on strategic positioning, which can dramatically enhance the appliance's performance.
The fundamental rule is to place the unit centrally within a room. Which? strongly advises against positioning a dehumidifier directly against a wall or piece of furniture, as this restricts airflow and hampers its ability to function properly.
Instead, the device should be situated in the middle of the space or kept at least 20 centimetres away from any surfaces to ensure even air circulation. The experts also warn against placing dehumidifiers near heat sources like radiators or air vents, as this can negatively impact their operation.
Slashing Laundry Drying Times Indoors
For those relying on indoor drying during the colder months, correct dehumidifier use can be a game-changer. Which? conducted a comparative test using two identical loads of washing.
One load was dried with a dehumidifier positioned underneath or beside the wet laundry, while the other was dried without. The result was clear: using a dehumidifier cut the total drying time by nearly half.
During the test, the dehumidifier extracted approximately two litres of moisture from the air. Removing this volume of water not only speeds up drying but also significantly reduces the risk of indoor damp and mould, a pressing concern as temperatures drop with winter storms like Goretti affecting Britain.
Health Risks of Indoor Drying and Mould Prevention
Research indicates that drying clothes in living spaces, particularly bedrooms, can foster damp conditions linked to health issues. Laundry specialists at In The Wash caution that moisture-laden laundry in frequently used rooms doesn't just encourage mould; it can also contribute to respiratory problems and create unpleasant odours.
By using a dehumidifier correctly, households can combat the excess moisture generated by daily activities and winter weather, creating a healthier and more comfortable home environment while protecting the property from damp-related damage.
