24/7 Emergency Service
Mold: Tips on the Invisible Enemy
8/1/2018 (Permalink)
Our technician Mike shows us a hidden colony of mold behind a water damaged wall.
Molds are naturally found in the environment around us, but some are more dangerous than others. Mold effects everyone differently, but most commonly the side effects of being exposed to mold are usually mild and appear similar to symptoms of a sinus infection.
Potential Side Effects from Mold Exposure
The EPA advised that the potential health concerns from molds are present for everyone, but concerns are especially high for young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. Mold can cause health problems but effects and how mild those effects are vary from person to person.
How do I reduce my chances of mold growth?
While you can't completely eliminate your risk for mold since it is a naturally occurring fungi in the environment, you can reduce your risks significantly by using these tips.
- Find and address any standing water immediately. The longer water sits, the higher the chance for mold growth.
- Maintain safe temperature levels in your home. Too cold and water condenses on cold hard surfaces, too hot and humidity in the air won't dehumidify correctly in your HVAC system.
- Maintain good airflow in the house. A good circulation of cool air in your home will allow any moisture to evaporate from the air,
- Keep indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent.
- Vacuum and clean often to reduce dirt and dust in the home. It has been found that 80% of mold grows on dust.
- Routinely check appliances that carry or hold water for leaks.
10 places homeowners tend to overlook when checking for mold:
- dishwashers
- Ice Maker connections and lines
- Washing machine connections
- Hot water heater
- Plastic P-traps
- Toilet connections and wax ring
- shower doors
- bathtubs(Jacuzzi style bathtubs with jets can accumulate mold growth as well if they are not regularly used or cleaned out)
- Exterior hose bib
- Outdoor sprinkler systems