At Green Isle of Wight, we understand that improving home energy efficiency often means addressing more than just heating and insulation—it’s about creating healthier, more comfortable living environments. Barry’s story is a perfect example of how small changes can make a big impact.
We first met Barry at one of our talks at the Alzheimer’s Café. He had attended several of our sessions on energy efficiency and decided to book a home visit to learn more about how he could improve his living conditions.
The Problem
During our home energy survey, it became clear that Barry’s flat was struggling with high humidity levels—over 70%. This high level of moisture was causing significant issues, including condensation on the windows, which Barry was wiping down every morning. To try and manage the situation, he had been running a dehumidifier daily, but this was neither cost-effective nor a sustainable solution.
The root cause of the problem was a lack of proper ventilation in Barry’s home. His windows lacked trickle vents, and there was no extractor fan in the kitchen, meaning that warm, moist air was trapped inside, contributing to condensation and raising the risk of damp and mould.
The Solution
Following our visit, we worked with Barry to implement a few targeted measures to tackle the humidity issue:
• Fitting an extractor fan in the kitchen: This helped remove moisture-laden air at the source, particularly during cooking.
• Adding trickle vents to the windows: These allowed for continuous, passive ventilation, enabling fresh air to circulate while maintaining the warmth in his home.
The Results
The difference was immediate and noticeable. After the improvements, the humidity level in Barry’s flat dropped significantly. He shared with us:
“The air feels fresher in the flat—not cold, just fresher. I now don’t get condensation on the windows.”
With the humidity under control, Barry no longer needs to use his dehumidifier, reducing his energy consumption and lowering his bills. Most importantly, by addressing the excess moisture, Barry has reduced the risk of condensation damp and mould, creating a healthier and more comfortable home environment.
The Impact
This case highlights how even small, targeted interventions can significantly improve indoor air quality and overall living conditions. By addressing ventilation issues, Barry’s home is now more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and healthier to live in—a win for both his wellbeing and his energy bills.
At Green Isle of Wight, we are committed to helping people like Barry take practical steps towards warmer, healthier homes. If you or someone you know could benefit from a home energy survey, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Together, we can make a difference.
