As the cold weather batters the UK and Brits brace for more icy temperatures, people are warned one money saving heating mistake could be causing mould. The cold conditions cause all sorts of havoc in homes, including the increased risk of mould growth, and mould thrives in damp conditions so it's important that people are aware of how to banish it quickly, and more importantly, keep it away.
It's revealed that three quarters of Brit's reduce ventilation in their homes to keep bills down and keep their houses warm, but this is a "paradise" for mould to grow, according to experts at Peter Cox, the UK's leading damp and mould specialists.
It seems as if people are unwittingly making it worse by the way they are drying their clothes and showering too. People have noticed an increase in mould growth and this could be down to higher energy bills. According to the experts, more than three quarters of Brits say they have made "more of an effort to keep windows closed and reduce ventilation" in a bid to "reduce their energy bills" but this could be inadvertently causing the mould to grow.
Keeping windows shut may seem like the ideal way for struggling Brits to keep their homes warm, it could be "false economy" according to the experts. Nicholas Donnithorne, UK Technical Services Manager, Peter Cox told The Mirror: "The data shows a strong correlation between Brits making an effort to reduce ventilation in their homes in a bid to save energy and a spike in instances of mould.
"We understand it can feel like a catch-22; we all want to find ways to keep our energy bills down over the colder months, but trapping the warm moist air inside can inadvertently cause issues with mould later down the line. Mould not only looks unsightly, but can have implications for our health"
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He then advised there are ways people can help decrease the risk of mould growth, these could be investing in a dehumidifier to "reduce the moisture" without needing to open a window. Nicholas also added: "If the issue persists, damp will rarely 'sort itself out' so it is imperative to get professional help rather than just painting over it."
The experts urge that ventilation is "vital" and without ventilating a home, there is "nowhere for warm moist air to escape". This means if the moisture has nowhere to go, it can condensate which increases the chances of mould forming. The experts revealed some of the best ways to avoid mould.
These include ventilation especially after cooking or showering, avoid drying clothes on radiators as this "blocks the heat and prevents the air from circulating. Doing this also releases a "large amount of water vapour" into the home as the clothes dry. Instead, they suggest using a drying rack or drying outside if possible. As well as investing in a dehumidifier to help draw out any excess moisture.
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