Why Every Student Needs a Dehumidifier in Their Uni Accommodation

University life is full of excitement and new experiences, but for many students in the UK, adjusting to shared accommodation can bring unexpected challenges. One common issue is dealing with excess moisture in living spaces, which can lead to dampness, mould, and musty smells, creating an unpleasant environment. Managing moisture levels becomes essential, especially during the cold and wet autumn and winter months.

While opening windows can help ventilate a room, it’s often not practical due to cold weather, rain, or security concerns in urban areas. Using a dehumidifier is a practical and effective way to combat moisture issues in university halls and shared houses.

1st Year University Accommodation: A Perfect Storm for Moisture Issues

First-year students often live in shared spaces with limited facilities. Everyday activities, such as drying laundry in bedrooms due to the lack of tumble dryers, significantly increase indoor humidity. Without proper ventilation or a dehumidifier, this can lead to condensation and mould growth, posing health risks.

En-suite bathrooms without functioning extractor fans can exacerbate these issues. Students should check extractor fans by holding a piece of paper against them—if the paper doesn’t stick, the fan isn’t working, increasing the risk of dampness.

2nd and 3rd Year Housing: A Growing Problem

As students move into privately rented houses, moisture problems often worsen. High occupancy, poor property maintenance, and shared living spaces increase the likelihood of condensation, mould, and dampness.

Indoor laundry drying is a major contributor to moisture buildup. With several people drying clothes in the same house, moisture levels rise, causing damp conditions, musty-smelling clothes, and inefficient heating, which further increases energy bills. Cooking and frequent use of bathrooms add to the problem, creating an ideal environment for mould growth.

What Causes Damp and Mould in Student Accommodation?

Student housing is often older and less well-maintained, with poor insulation and ventilation. High occupancy means moisture from activities like cooking, showering, and even breathing accumulates quickly. Budget constraints often lead students to dry clothes indoors, further increasing humidity levels.

The Health Risks of Damp and Mould

Damp and mould can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. Symptoms include sneezing, skin rashes, and eye irritation, which can impact overall well-being and academic performance. Addressing these issues is essential for maintaining a healthy living space.

The Solution: A Low Energy, Low Noise Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier can significantly improve the living conditions in student accommodation by removing excess moisture, preventing condensation, and reducing the risk of mould. This creates a healthier and more comfortable environment for students to study and relax in.

Dehumidifiers with laundry modes help dry clothes faster, especially during winter when outdoor drying isn’t an option. They are also energy-efficient, costing as little as 3p per hour to run, and can reduce heating bills by maintaining dry, warm air.

Choosing the Right Dehumidifier

Selecting a dehumidifier depends on the size of the living space:

• Small spaces (e.g., student bedrooms): A 10L model is ideal for efficient moisture control.
• Medium spaces (e.g., 2-3 bedroom houses): A 12L model works well for managing humidity throughout the property.
• Large spaces (e.g., 4-5 bedroom houses): A 20L model provides effective moisture management for larger areas.

Prioritise energy efficiency, low noise levels, and a laundry mode for frequent use in student housing.

Benefits of a Dehumidifier for Landlords

Landlords can protect their properties from long-term damage caused by damp and mould by providing dehumidifiers. This proactive approach saves on costly repairs and ensures a safe and comfortable environment for tenants, improving tenant satisfaction and retention.

Long-Term Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers provide long-term cost savings by protecting furniture, clothing, and property from moisture damage. They also make heating more efficient, reducing energy bills. Dehumidifiers are useful year-round, controlling excess humidity during both colder and warmer seasons.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Every Student

Given the challenges faced in university halls and shared houses, a dehumidifier is an essential investment. It creates a healthier, more comfortable living space while saving on energy costs. As an alternative to costly tumble dryers, dehumidifiers offer a practical and economical solution for managing moisture and improving quality of life in student accommodation.