The key to controlling mold growth in your home is in managing humidity levels. Moist environments prove ideal for cultivating mold growth. And, where mold grows, it spreads. You do not want mold in your home as it poses serious, sometimes permanent, health threats to you and your family.
Mold can cause respiratory issues, increase allergy symptoms, and in aggressive cases, cause nervous system disorders. It affects the air you breathe, compromising your safe haven, your home. So, we have created a list of mold-causing culprits you should avoid in your home.
Leaking HVAC Unit
A leaking HVAC unit can cause costly damage to your home. Water can leak into your ceiling, walls, and floors causing severe and expensive water damage. When left unresolved, this water becomes a perfect breeding ground for mold.
Mold can also grow inside of your air conditioning unit. Within the evaporator coil, which is responsible for cooling your air, and the drain pan, which catches the condensation created by the evaporator coil, there is extreme moisture, dirt, and dust. During the cooling process, your air conditioner processes dirt and mold spores naturally in your home’s air. When dust makes its way into your air conditioning system, it finds an ideal space for mold spores to grow and spread.
A musty odor will be released from your air conditioning unit when mold is present. If your home takes on a strange smell all of a sudden, your air may be compromised due to mold growth. You will need immediate, professional mold removal.
Increased Humidity
If you are not using a dehumidifier in your home, you should be. It is extremely humid in Washington, but your house should be a reprieve from that humidity. As we mentioned above, mold loves humid environments.
To identify if your home has above normal levels of humidity, simply look at your windows. If there is condensation, you may have a humidity problem. You should undergo mold testing to ensure you and your family have a healthy home.
Poor Ventilation and Leaky Pipes
If your ventilation is sub-par, your air ducts could be subject to mold growth. Over-sized air conditioning units, inadequate bathroom and kitchen ventilation, and leaking pipes can all instigate mold development. The best way to prevent mold growth from unsatisfactory ventilation is by simply maintaining your home. If you have clean air ducts, use your ventilation after cooking and showering, and fix leaks immediately, you will prevent mold from invading your space.
Wet Clothes
We know that summer shenanigans can lead to an unexpected dip in the pool or an impromptu water fight; however, it is exceedingly important that once you get home, you put your wet clothes directly into your washing machine. Leaving wet clothes in a hamper, or on the floor, is a sure way to give mold spores a home to foster and spread.
For mold testing and mold removal, contact AWR Restoration & Cleaning, at (206) 823-2252. We ensure a mold-free, healthy home for you and your family.
