For many across the UK, the winter months bring a persistent and annoying problem: condensation on windows. This daily fog and dripping water can obscure views, damage frames, and even lead to mould. One journalist, after years of battling this issue in her older home, found a solution that transformed her winters – a simple £40 gadget.
A Three-Year Test: Does a Window Vacuum Really Work?
Mia O'Hare, a lifestyle reporter, purchased a Karcher Window Vac WV1 in 2023 for £39.99 to tackle severe condensation on her single-glazed windows. Three years later, she reports that the device has been a game-changer. The cordless vacuum is designed to suck moisture directly off glass surfaces, storing it in a detachable tank.
O'Hare describes the routine as simple: each morning, she glides the vacuum's nozzle across her eight windows. The condensation vanishes in seconds, with all the water collected in the handle. The device is lightweight, features a single on/off button, and a full charge lasts her approximately two weeks of daily use.
The Pros and Cons After Extensive Use
While highly effective, the long-term review highlights some drawbacks. The main issue is the small capacity of the water tank, which fills quickly on windows with heavy condensation, requiring frequent trips to the sink to empty it. O'Hare also notes that the plastic catch on the tank is somewhat fragile; a hasty removal caused a small part to break, though it remains functional.
Battery life is generally good, but the warning before it depletes is minimal – a red light flashes just before the power cuts out. Despite these points, O'Hare states the vacuum has "entirely transformed my winters" and has paid for itself through daily use.
What Other Buyers Say and Cheaper Alternatives
Customer reviews for the Karcher model are mixed. Many are thrilled, praising its effectiveness for window condensation and cleaning. One user called it a "great bit of kit," while another said it made a "such a difference." However, some report dissatisfaction with build quality and suction power, with complaints about flimsy tanks and batteries that don't last.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, other brands offer similar devices. Asda currently stocks a Tower TWV10 Cordless Window Vacuum for £20, and Screwfix has a Titan model reduced to £19.99 from £29.99. These alternatives provide potential solutions for clearing condensation without the need for constant ventilation or cloths, which can often just spread the moisture around.
