Winter has set in and despite the heating, we are not always warm. There is a good reason for this.
This is something we talk about regularly, because we know how harmful it is for health, but no one could imagine that it also prevents apartments from being well heated. And yet.
We already knew that an insufficient number of radiators in a large room does not provide optimum heat over the entire surface. On the Engie website, the electricity supplier points out that for a room of 15 m² with a ceiling height of 2.5 m, a radiator of 1050 W to 1500 W of power will be sufficient. On the other hand, for a living room of 30 m², it is recommended to have two radiators of medium power instead of just one. “The heat radiation will be more homogeneous, and this avoids overloading a single device,” we can read on the site. The location is also strategic. It is recommended to install them in the coldest part, often under the window. There are also other factors that can reduce their effectiveness, such as the presence of dust. It forms a thin film preventing optimal diffusion and the radiators consume more energy in order to really play their role.
Other elements can increase the cost and reduce the effectiveness of these devices. This is precisely the case of this point mentioned by Emma Guessel in Télématin. She points out that this problem is very common and that it even affects one in two households. In addition, it reduces the efficiency of radiators. Besides, we feel it. The temperature is around 19 to 20° here and yet it still feels very cold.
Actually, it’s because of the humidity. And it is often more important in winter because we ventilate less, due to the cold and bad weather. As a result, the air becomes loaded with water and this prevents heat from diffusing properly.
How do you know if there is humidity in your home? Fogging on the windows is a first clue. But to be really precise, the best thing is to invest in a hygrometer. And be careful, a humidity level above 60% should alert you. The most effective method for preventing excessive humidity is to ventilate your home for ten minutes every day. This ritual renews the air and prevents the accumulation of humidity, thus promoting better heat diffusion and a healthier environment.
If, despite this, the problem persists, invest in an air dehumidifier. The first prices are less than 30 euros. And it’s worth it, because according to the Wood’s brand, lowering the humidity by 2% allows you to gain up to 2 degrees in a room without increasing your bill.
