Winter Home Management: Tips for Tenants
Managing your home during the winter months can help keep it warmer, dryer, and more comfortable. Below are some important tips to prevent and manage condensation in different areas of your home.
General Tips
Blinds & Curtains: These must be opened every day to let sunlight in which will help warm and dry your home, then close them again about 4.30pm.
Condensation: Every day you must dry your windows (glass/frame/sill)/doors where condensation forms, to prevent mould and mildew.
Ventilation: After drying up Condensation, you must open those windows to allow fresh air to circulate for 10-15 minutes each day.
Heating: Maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Use heaters or heat pumps efficiently and ensure you clean out the filter regularly.
Dehumidifiers: Consider using a dehumidifier in high-moisture areas. Empty the water container regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Furniture Placement: Keep furniture slightly away from walls to allow air to circulate and prevent mould growth. Do not put mattresses directly onto carpeted surfaces.
Regular Maintenance: Wipe down ceilings (especially bathrooms) on a regular basis to prevent mould (White vinegar is cheap and easy to use).
Kitchen
Ventilation: Always use the range hood while cooking to expel moisture-laden air. Open the kitchen window for 5 minutes once you’ve finished.
Cooking: Cover pots with lids to reduce steam. Use the smallest amount of water needed when boiling food.
Windows: Wipe down any condensation on windows daily to prevent mould growth.
Bathroom
Exhaust Fan: Always use the exhaust fan during and after showers to remove moisture. Leave it on for at least 15 minutes after use. Open the bathroom door slightly when finished, as this will help the fan work better.
Shower Practices: Keep the shower door or curtain closed while showering to contain steam. Consider using a squeegee to remove water from walls and doors (glass in showers should always dried off)
Windows: Always open windows after showering to allow moisture to escape. Wipe down any condensation.
Floor: Dry water on the floor and hang up bathmats to dry, do not leave wet towels etc on the floor. If you do not have enough towel rails, please advise your PM and we will see what can be done.
Laundry
Drying Clothes: Dry clothes outside when possible. If using a dryer, ensure it's vented outside or use a Condenser or Heatpump Dryer.
Ventilation: Do not dry clothing on racks in the house unless you have a dehumidifier next to it or you can place the rack by an open door.
Washing Machine: Wipe down any moisture around the washing machine after use and keep the door slightly open to air it out.
By following these tips, you can keep your home warmer, drier, and healthier during the winter months. If you encounter any persistent issues with mould, please contact your property manager for further assistance.
Stay warm and dry!