Householders in East Devon are being urged to take a ‘lower, longer’ approach to their heating this winter with rising energy prices.

The Property Care Association (PCA) are advising residents concerned about rising energy prices to turn their heating down, but leave it on longer, to help regulate the temperature in their property during ‘condensation season’ to avoid damp and mould.

The PCA has a range of information and advice for householders about condensation, which is a perennial problem each autumn and can lead to mould and damp issues.

Andrew Dallen is the chairman of the Property Care Association said: “The most common form of unwanted dampness in buildings is water from the air that forms as condensation.

“The air in buildings can have a high level of relative humidity due to the activity of the occupants, such as cooking, drying clothes and even breathing.

“When this water-laden air comes into contact with cold surfaces such as windows and cold walls it can condense, causing water to be deposited.

“The point at which the water held in the air changes from vapour to liquid is known as the dew point.

“There’s no doubt that in recent years our members have seen more and more cases of high moisture levels in properties, which in turn can lead to condensation issues.

“There is a range of reasons for this, including increased levels of occupation and rising fuel costs, as well as a drive to make homes more energy-efficient.

“Efforts to reduce air leakage through draught-proofing and retrofit insulation, as well as the changing climate patterns, featuring warmer, wetter weather, are also of significance.”

Andrew added: “For the vast majority of people, it’s a problem that can be addressed with a few lifestyle changes.

“But there are situations where it can affect the liveability of a home, particularly in more serious cases where damp and associated mould can take hold.

“Usually, one of the most effective ways to tackle the issue in this type of environment is to ensure homes are properly ventilated.

More details about the scheme can be found on their website at: https://www.property-care.org/homeowners/domestic-air-quality-and-ventilation/