Finding mold growth in your home can be a shock. Mold spores are present naturally in the air, though are usually found is such low concentrations that they don't bother anyone. However, when they find a place to spread and grow, they can release much larger amounts of spores, which can trigger allergies, exacerbate respiratory illnesses, clog HVAC air filters, and even damage or disfigure your home.
The primary factor in encouraging mold growth is high humidity. Mold, like fungus and bacteria, grows best in a moist, humid environment. That's why mold is commonly found in areas such as bathrooms, especially those with poor ventilation.
Adding ventilation to areas which produce a good deal of air moisture — such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms — is one way to prevent mold growth. Or, you may want to consider installing a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers can be installed centrally, sharing the same ductwork and air handling as your central air conditioner and furnace, or you may opt for smaller, stand-alone units to take care of specific problem spots within your home.
Air filtration and cleaning can also help cut down on mold. Air filters, whether your normal furnace filter or a specialized central unit, strain mold spores and other airborne particulates out of your air. The downside is that, because they don't destroy the spores, if the filter itself becomes damp, it could provide another breeding ground for mold.
Ultraviolet (UV) lights, on the other hand, do destroy mold spores, as well as other organic particulates such as bacteria and fungal spores. They can be installed inside your ductwork, or next to a filter, for an added layer of protection. They do not, however, remove particulates from the air, so if you're looking for a general-purpose air quality solution, they may not be the ideal option.
To learn more about keeping your Fort Wayne home safe from mold and keeping your indoor air quality high, contact Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning today!
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about mold and bacteria and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 260-376-2961.
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