Living in beautiful Cornwall comes with its perks: coastal views, fresh sea air, and a laid-back lifestyle. But for many homeowners, the county’s unique climate also brings hidden challenges, particularly when it comes to indoor air quality. Damp conditions, condensation, radon, and mould are common problems, especially in older homes with limited airflow.
At Wake Electrical, we’ve helped countless homeowners tackle these issues by installing professional ventilation systems in Cornwall. Here’s why investing in proper ventilation is more important than ever.
Why Ventilation Matters in Cornwall
Cornwall’s coastal climate is naturally damp and humid. While this helps create the lush scenery we all enjoy, it also increases the risk of moisture problems inside homes. Many older cottages and terraced properties across the region were built with little consideration for airflow, while newer homes are so airtight for efficiency that they can trap moisture inside.
Without adequate ventilation, issues like:
- Condensation on windows and walls
- Black mould growth
- Dust mites and allergens
- Musty, stale air
…become all too common.
Health impacts of poor ventilation
The NHS warns that damp and mould can increase the risk of respiratory infections, asthma flare-ups, and allergies. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are particularly at risk. Public Health England recommends maintaining indoor temperatures of at least 18°C in winter to reduce damp and mould risks.
- Around 5.4 million people in the UK currently receive asthma treatment, and exposure to mould spores is a well-documented trigger.
- Studies also link damp conditions with higher rates of eczema and other allergic conditions.
Radon risks in Cornwall
Cornwall is one of the UK’s radon hotspots. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), areas of Cornwall have some of the highest indoor radon levels in the country. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps into homes from the ground and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the UK, after smoking.
Proper ventilation helps dilute and expel radon gas, reducing long-term exposure risks.
Benefits of Installing a Modern Ventilation System
Healthier Living Environment
A good ventilation system drastically reduces mould spores, dust mites, and allergens. For households with asthma or allergy sufferers, this can mean fewer flare-ups and an overall healthier indoor environment.
Protect Your Property
Condensation doesn’t just fog up your windows; it damages plaster, paintwork, and even timber over time. A modern system helps protect your investment by preserving your home’s structure and finishes.
Greater Comfort
No more stuffy rooms, damp smells, or the need to crack windows year-round. A properly designed ventilation system keeps fresh air moving through your home, maintaining a comfortable climate.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems are especially efficient. They recycle heat from outgoing air and transfer it to incoming fresh air, reducing heating costs. In fact, MVHR can recover up to 90% of the heat that would otherwise be lost through extractor fans or open windows.
Why Choose a Local Expert in Newquay?
When it comes to ventilation systems in Newquay, choosing a local installer makes a big difference.
- We understand the quirks of Cornish properties, from granite stone walls to compact loft spaces.
- Local expertise means quicker callouts and tailored advice.
- You’ll deal directly with a trusted team, not a national call centre.
Wake Electrical’s Approach
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every property gets a full assessment to identify the right solution, whether that’s:
- A full MVHR system for maximum efficiency.
- Continuous running extractor fans for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Targeted upgrades for problem rooms.
Client project: Ventilation Systems in St Austell
We recently upgraded ventilation in a 1970s property near St Austell. The homeowners had battled recurring black mould in bedrooms and a damp smell in their hallway. Our team designed and installed a discreet MVHR system, routing ducting through built-in wardrobes to maintain the look of the home. Within weeks, the mould dried out, condensation disappeared, and the homeowners reported noticeably cleaner air and fewer allergy flare-ups.
Ricki’s Tip: Avoid Common Ventilation Mistakes
“One of the biggest mistakes I see is people blocking up vents in winter because they think it’ll keep the heat in. Truth is, all it does is trap the damp and make the mould worse. Another one is relying on old bathroom fans; short timers just don’t cut it. The newer continuous fans tick over quietly in the background and do a much better job of keeping moisture down. And if you’ve already got an MVHR system, don’t forget the filters, they need checking and changing, otherwise the system can’t do what it’s meant to. Little things like this make a massive difference.” – Ricki, owner of Wake Electrical.
Book a Free Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with damp, mould, or poor air circulation, Wake Electrical can help. Read our tips for reducing condensation and mould in homes here.
Contact Ricki at Wake Electrical today to learn more about our expert ventilation systems in Cornwall. From full MVHR installations to simple extractor upgrades, we’ll help you create a healthier, drier, and more comfortable home.