Controlling Mold Growth

If there’s a musty smell in your Mobile, Alabama, home or you have unexplained health problems like sinus trouble, eye irritation, headaches, or fatigue, you could have mold. Mold can grow on the back of wallpaper, underneath carpeting, on drywall, and almost anywhere else in your home. Since they’re microscopic, there’s no way to keep all mold spores out of your home, but you can prevent most mold growth. Using a dehumidifier, improving your indoor air quality, and watching for water damage can help you control mold.

Using a Dehumidifier

Excess moisture encourages mold growth, exacerbated by Mobile’s high spring and summer humidity. A dehumidifier can prevent mold problems and make you and your family more comfortable. Since drier air feels cooler, you won’t have to use your air conditioner as much with a dehumidifier. You can also use it in winter to prevent condensation on your windows, walls, or pipes.

Improving Your Indoor Air Quality

You can lower the number of mold spores and other contaminants in your indoor air by improving your indoor air quality. Change your HVAC system’s air filter once per month, and use a ceiling exhaust fan when you cook or take a shower. You can also have a UV lamp installed in your ductwork to kill mold, dust mites, viruses, and bacteria. These devices can’t remove the dead mold spores, but they can help you make sure the number of spores in your home stays low.

Watching for Water Damage

Even a minor leak in your plumbing or a spilled glass of water on your carpet can turn into a mold problem if you don’t repair it and clean up any excess moisture promptly. After water damage, you should replace anything that doesn’t dry in one or two days. After storms, check your roof for damage and watch for dark spots on ceilings or walls.

Air Specialty has more than 20 years of experience, and we can help you install, maintain, and repair a wide range of HVAC equipment. Call us anytime at (251) 415-4559 for more information on controlling mold growth and excellent service.

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