Dehumidifier or extractor fan for windowless utility room?

[mulranna]

We have a condensing tumble drier which we rarely use - we dry most of our clothes on a sheila made - boiler and hot water cylinder are in utility room so things dry quite quickly but we are getting condensation on our back door and adjoining downstairs loo.....

Should we get a dehumidifier or extractor fan? ... can you get ones that plug in and are easy to install - dont want to have to wad out for an electrician etc?

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[PigletJohn]

has the room got an external wall?

[mulranna]

Yes - 2 walls are external

[PigletJohn]

then I would suggest boring 110mm holes in the wall, one near the ceiling and one about 450mm above the floor, lining each with plastic duct and fitting a cowl vent on the outside of the top one, and an external grille (or a cowl vent with the flap removed) the bottom one. Natural convection currents will tend to ventilate the room. You might have to remove the upper flap for free flow. Put a plastic hit and miss vent on the inside to control excessive draughts. Water vapour is lighter than air so will rise towards the ceiling. You can get a core drill from a tool hire shop, or a plumber or jobbing builder will have one. It is heavy and noisy. Do any holes you might want for kitchen or bathroom extractors the same day.

You may later decide to add an extractor fan. Get a modern quiet one with a ball-bearing motor. It can be wired to the light fitting, to come on automatically when the light is switched on, or using an FCU off the socket circuit, which may be more convenient. You might consider a timed switch to run on for a convenient period after operating. Unless you are competent, use a qualified electrician.

[mulranna]

Thanks thats great advice we have terrible condensation problems in our bedroom as we have patio doors could we do the same wall drilling thing there also to address that issue?

[PigletJohn]

yes

for modest ventilation, a fan might not be needed (but bathrooms and kitchens do need them)

Noise coming through may be noticeable in a bedroom. There are sound-deadening ventilators used near noisy road and airports but I have not used them.

Wet washing is a terrible source of damp, and it diffuses through your home, and rises to upstairs rooms.

[mulranna]

Wet washing is the issue -- but trying to be green - avoiding the tumble dryer ....