In this new blog post series, we’ll examine some trouble zones in the home when it comes to wetness and moisture management. We’ll also provide some quick tips to help remedy these common moisture issues in the trouble areas discussed. If you have any severe problems or just need a hand figuring out the best approach to take in managing moisture in your home, call our team at BelRed today.
Perhaps the most troublesome area in any home when it comes to moisture management is the bathroom. Whether it’s the result of a long hot shower or water splashing all around from the sink, the bathroom is a place that always sees its fair share of moisture challenges. In this post, we’ll examine a few tips on how to make sure the vent fan in your bathroom is combating this moisture to the best of its ability.
Tip 1 – Reduce the length and temperature of your showers. Long, hot showers are big culprits when it comes to moisture and condensation inside your bathroom. The longer and hotter the shower, the more steam is able to fill the air. This means your vent fan has to work overtime to try to clear up the air. The less steam, the faster it is for the fan to do its job.
Tip 2 – Turn the fan on before you start your shower. A simple flick of the switch before you start your shower routine can really help. It gets the air in the bathroom moving before the steam from the shower hits it. Likewise, run the fan for up to 20 minutes after the shower is complete to ensure the air is clear of moisture. You can even install fan timers or install a humidity-detecting fan for the best results and highest convenience.
Tip 3 – Be sure your fan is suitable for your bathroom. Not all bathroom fans are created equal—just like not all bathrooms are the same size. Pay special attention to the recommended size for the fan you’re buying if you’re at the installation stage. If you have a large bathroom, getting the cheapest fan probably isn’t going to get the job done. Spending a little more now to get a proper fan for your bathroom size could save you a ton of money when it comes to avoiding expensive fixes caused by moisture.
Tip 4 – Check for proper ventilation. Make sure the duct and vent system coming from the fan is clear of blockages. Always make sure your vent fan duct has a short path to the outside wall or roof with few turns. Inside the home, make sure your door has at least 5/8 of an inch between the bottom of the door and the floor to allow some fresh air to enter the bathroom while the fan in operating. Better yet, if you don’t need full privacy, leave the door cracked open during your showers.
