Sunny Windows, Shady Trees and Other Non-Electrical Supports to HVAC

As you may know, black mold is a toxic substance. It can grow rapidly under the right conditions and cause a range of illnesses ranging from headaches to respiratory issues. Most homeowners would like to believe that they do not have a black mold issue. Some believe that black mold is a sign of uncleanliness.

Mold needs the right conditions to thrive, and that has nothing to do with cleanliness. Moisture, temperature, and light conditions can all impact whether black mold can spread. Mold can negatively impact indoor air conditions and make breathing in indoor air as dangerous as outdoor polluted air. The following points will help you to understand ways you can combat mold in your home.

Places to Find Hidden Mold

You may not see black mold on surfaces. If you notice it on walls, baseboards, or floors, it is likely lurking behind walls or underneath floors too. Mold can also develop in air conditioning units. The spores can spread when the system is turned on and travel throughout your home. Appliances such as dryers and refrigerators may create condensation or humidity. The moisture is an ideal place for mold to grow.

Dirty air ducts can also hide mold. If mold is located in any component of your AC system, you will probably smell a peculiar musty odor when you turn your AC on. Family members with allergies may feel sick because of exposure to the spores. Routine HVAC maintenance may inhibit the growth of mold in your AC system since it involves cleaning ducts and other components of AC systems.

Balancing Humidity and Moisture

Proper exhaust is ideal for managing moisture-rich circumstances. Ensure that appliances that require heat are venting out appropriately. This will reduce the humidity they create. Use your stove exhaust when cooking. Vent out your clothes dryer. Invest in a dehumidifier. These appliances are designed to draw out moisture. Ensure that you utilize natural options for eliminating moisture such as opening windows when the weather is appropriate. Bathrooms are a common place for mold to develop due to the moisture that develops there from bathing and taking hot showers. Reduce moisture by turning on the vent when taking care of your personal hygiene. 

An HVAC contractor is a good resource to help you understand more about the importance of quality indoor air. They can also offer additional tips to ensure that you can improve the quality of your indoor air. There are tests they can perform to determine if your indoor air is hazardous.