Mold serves a vital function in nature because it breaks down organic matter into nutrients used by many organisms such as plants. However, when mold is welcomed into your home, it can negatively affect your family’s health.
Mold-inviting moisture found commonly in laundry rooms, basements, kitchens, and bathrooms can lead to the growth of molds that produce allergens and irritants, or in more serious cases, toxic substances. There are several cleaners and chemicals available to combat mold, but these can be just as harmful to the air quality in your home. Instead, there are several things that you can do to reduce mold-inviting moisture:
- Repair leaks in the bathroom and kitchen plumbing as soon as possible.
- Clean up dry or damp spots within a minimum of 48 hours.
- Avoid condensation forming in your home by warming interior surfaces with insulation, and by turning on bathroom fans, and wiping up floors and bathtubs after showers.
- Try to keep the relative humidity in your home between 30 to 50 percent. You can purchase a hygrometer to track humidity levels. Use a dehumidifier if conditions outside are warm and humid, and open windows to increase ventilation when conditions are dry and cool.
- Schedule regular inspections and maintenance on your HVAC system to ensure the proper and efficient functioning of all its components.
- Clean and empty all heating, ventilation, and air conditioner drip pans. Inspect drain tubes on all appliances and ensure that they are flowing properly and without obstruction.
Vent moisture-generating appliances such as dryers outside of your home. - If your home’s foundation is damp, have a contractor come out to inspect the drainage. Correct any drainage issues as soon as possible so that mold-inviting moisture doesn’t seep into your home.
If you live in the New Jersey area, contact Pipe Works Services for expert advice about preventing or eliminating mold-inviting moisture in your home. Our goal is to ensure that your equipment operates safely, and we can help you to address issues with the quality of the air you breathe.