Staying Warm, Dry, and Healthy at Home This Winter
As winter takes hold, we want to help you stay warm, dry, and healthy in your home – all whilst keeping those heating costs as low as possible.
New Zealand winters can be cold and damp – often quite different to what many of our tenants from overseas may be used to. Many homes in Wellington, especially older ones, may not have double glazing or central heating. Because of this, it’s important to adjust the way we live in them to avoid common winter issues like mould and condensation.
Below, we’ve put together some straightforward yet essential winter living tips, including how to prevent moisture build-up and mould, heat your home efficiently, and when to get in touch if you’re concerned.
What is Condensation – and Why Does It Matter?
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air meets a cold surface, such as a window or an uninsulated wall, turning into water droplets. You’ll often spot it in places like:
- Windows
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Bathroom and kitchen walls
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Bedrooms and in corners where air doesn’t circulate well
If left unchecked, condensation can lead to mould, which can damage both your home and your health.
Key ways to reduce condensation:
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Open windows and doors for 10–15 minutes each day to ventilate your home
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Always use extractor fans when cooking or showering
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Wipe condensation off windows and sills every morning
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Avoid drying clothes indoors – especially on heaters
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Keep curtains open during the day to allow in sunlight and air
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Hang washing outside or use a vented dryer whenever possible
Understanding Mould – and How to Prevent It
Mould is a fungus that thrives in damp, cold, and dark conditions. It feeds on dust and organic matter, appearing in black, grey, green, or white patches. If ignored, it can cause significant health issues, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions like asthma.
Prevention is key. Here’s how to help stop mould before it starts:
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Open curtains and windows daily to let in fresh air and sunlight
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Always use extractor fans or crack open a window when showering or cooking
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Wipe down any areas where condensation appears
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Fully dry clothes and shoes before putting them away
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Keep furniture slightly away from walls to allow air to circulate
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Never use portable gas heaters indoors
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Clean wet areas (bathrooms, kitchens) regularly
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Dry any water spills within 24–48 hours
If mould does appear:
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Clean it immediately with a solution of 80% white vinegar and 20% water in a spray bottle
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Avoid using bleach – it whitens mould but doesn’t kill it
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Use a clean cloth for cleaning and dispose of it afterwards to prevent spreading spores
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Repeat the cleaning regularly to prevent re-growth
Heating Your Home Efficiently
Heating your home can be costly, so it’s worth making your warmth go as far as possible:
Top tips for cost-effective heating:
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Use oil column heaters or panel heaters – avoid unfluted gas heaters
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Shut doors to unused rooms to keep heat where you need it
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Fit thick, lined curtains and draw them at night
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Use a timer on your heater to warm the room before you arrive home or wake up
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Block draughts using door snakes or rolled-up towels
Pro Tip:
Heating a dry home is far cheaper and more effective than heating a damp one – ventilate first, then heat.
When to Contact Your Property Manager
Please let us know promptly if you notice:
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Mould continuing to grow despite cleaning efforts
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Leaks, damp patches, or persistent musty smells
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Overflowing gutters or faulty extractor fans
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Persistent condensation on ceilings or walls
We’re here to support you. Our goal is for you to be safe, comfortable, and healthy in your home. If the mould or moisture problem persists despite good daily practices, please reach out to your property manager straight away.
Please note:
If mould or damp issues arise due to certain activities (such as blocking extractor fans, excessive indoor drying, using unapproved heaters, or humidifiers), tenants may be held responsible for any resulting damage.
Helpful Resources
For further advice and guidance, we recommend the following:
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Smarter Homes – Heating and Cooling
In short: a little daily ventilation, regular moisture control, and smart heating can make a massive difference to your comfort and wellbeing over winter.
If in doubt, reach out – our team is always happy to help.