Experts say using a dehumidifier is a more effective way to combat mould than opening windows, as it helps to control moisture levels inside rooms. The advice comes as the autumn season brings colder and wetter weather, which often leads to condensation forming on windows in the morning.
Condensation is usually the leading cause of damp and mould in homes. It forms when warm, moist air meets the cold surface of windows, causing droplets of water to form as the air cools. This standing water can cause mould and mildew to build up around windows.
Why dehumidifiers work better than ventilation
Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, which lowers humidity and makes it more difficult for mould to thrive. By comparison, opening windows can introduce even more moisture from outside, making ventilation more inconsistent.
Opening windows also carries a hidden cost, as rooms must be reheated after allowing cold air from outside to enter, which can quickly result in bigger energy bills.
Expert advice on managing humidity
An expert from Meaco explained: "A dehumidifier is a superb way to manage relative humidity in your home and reduce condensation. Plus, a dehumidifier is the only way you’ll remove moisture."
The expert added: "Condensation occurs because of temperature and relative humidity. You are unlikely to control the temperature of your windows, but you can manage relative humidity with a dehumidifier. Making a dehumidifier an incredibly effective choice to prevent condensation."
On costs, the expert said: "Running a dehumidifier does of course have a cost to it. There is an initial price of the unit, and then there’s the electricity cost to run it. But there is an important difference between the cost of running a dehumidifier and the cost of heating air."
The expert also noted: "Opening the windows does work but I am not a fan because of two reasons. One, it makes people feel uncomfortable. Secondly, there’s a huge hidden cost of reheating the fresh air coming in from outside. With energy bills skyrocketing it seems a real waste of money to keep on throwing the energy outside."
Combining methods for best results
Experts say dehumidifiers can be used in combination with opening windows to help prevent mould growth, as this will ensure good ventilation throughout the home. It is recommended to open windows after spells of rain, after a shower or cooking to allow air to circulate and release moisture, then use a dehumidifier to further reduce humidity levels.
In its online advice, hardware retailer Screwfix said: "Dehumidifiers vastly improve damp and condensation problems in a home because they reduce moisture levels."
"They’re most useful in rooms where there’s a lot of humidity. For example, a kitchen or bathroom, a room where clothes are dried, or in a bedroom where condensation builds up from the heat caused by breathing."
