Keeping an extractor fan running for at least 15 minutes after cooking or showering can stop litres of moisture from building up in the home, according to ventilation expert Ruth MacEachern.
As temperatures drop and rainfall increases, households are keeping windows shut more often. This autumn and winter habit can contribute to condensation and mould growth, especially as residents begin hanging washing indoors.
Common moisture mistake
MacEachern, ventilation expert at envirovent, said many people assume that operating an extractor fan during showering or cooking, then turning it off immediately, is enough. However, this approach does little to remove moisture effectively.
"As households spend more time indoors during the colder months, everyday activities such as cooking, showering and even boiling the kettle can cause moisture levels to rise," she said. "In fact, four people living in a three-bed property could produce up to 112 pints of moisture a week from just breathing, cooking, showering and boiling the kettle."
To combat this, the extractor fan should continue running for a minimum of 15 minutes after finishing in the kitchen or bathroom.
Six ways to reduce moisture
Alongside running the extractor fan for longer, MacEachern suggested six additional measures to tackle moisture in kitchen and bathroom areas:
- Cover pots and pans when boiling water
- Avoid opening the dishwasher until it has cooled
- Avoid opening the oven too often when cooking
- Use slightly cooler water to bathe
- Ensure the bathroom door is closed during and after showering or bathing
- Avoid leaving the bath filled for too long after use
Drying laundry indoors
For households without a tumble dryer or outdoor clothesline, drying laundry indoors is a necessity. MacEachern recommended using the bathroom as a makeshift drying room: "Use the towel rail to heat the room and turn the extractor fan on to draw out excess moisture. Make sure not to overcrowd the room and leave space between drying racks to boost airflow."
She added that this method dries clothes efficiently and avoids the musty smell often associated with indoor drying.
