Tips on heating, ventilation and avoiding mould

The topic of "heating and ventilation", which recurs regularly every winter, is particularly explosive this year. The government has called for energy savings. Heating less, however, can quickly lead to more moisture in the room and possibly even mould growth.

When energy prices skyrocket, many want to save. That is understandable. The easiest way to save energy costs is by heating. However, lowering the room temperature has an unpleasant side effect. If you reduce your heating too much, you risk an increased risk of mould growth, warns the Federal Association for Health Information and Consumer Protection (BGV).

The causes are quickly named: Moisture is formed in every home simply because people spend time in the rooms - through the air they breathe, through cooking and showering. A four-person household releases between six and twelve litres of water into the air every day.

Warm room air can absorb more moisture than cold air. Excess moisture that the air can no longer absorb condenses in the coldest places in the room. Mould can then develop there.

Therefore, one should "heat wisely". In rooms where you spend time, such as the living room or study, a room temperature of at least 18 degrees is ideal. In rooms that are not used or not used much, you can also reduce the temperature to 16 degrees, if necessary, because there is also less humidity in the air. Replace humid air immediately after bathing, showering and cooking. The bedroom should also be well aired immediately after getting up.

A hygrometer can be used to measure the air humidity. Ideally, it should be between 40 and 60 percent. To achieve this, regular airing is absolutely necessary. It is recommended to ventilate three times a day, i.e. open the windows wide for ten minutes. In winter, when there are large temperature differences, even five minutes can be sufficient.

(Photo: © Christelle Olivier, Pixabay)