3 Ways to Prevent Mold In Your Home

4/21/2017 (Permalink)

Here are 7 ways to keep your home safe from mold damages and prevent further damage. Brought to you by SERVPRO.

1. Eliminate Clutter

Clutter blocks airflow and prevents your HVAC system from circulating air. Furniture and curtains that block supply grilles cause condensation. All this moisture creates microclimates in your home that welcome mold growth.  Push furniture away from vents and grilles to keep air circulating. On humid, still days, run a couple of fans to keep air moving.

2. Shut Windows and Doors When AC Is On

When you open windows and doors, you let air conditioning escape, waste money, and invite humid air into your cooler home. This causes condensation, which mold loves. So keep doors and windows shut when the AC is humming.  Also, maintain your home at around 80 degrees when you’re on vacation or at work. Too often, we bump the thermostat up to 85 degrees, or turn off the AC when we’re away. This raises temperature and humidity, which creates the ideal home for mold.

3. Monitor Humidity

An indoor humidity monitor will help you keep track of moisture levels that, ideally, fall between 35% and 50% relative humidity; in very humid climates, at the height of summer, you may have to live with readings closer to 55%. But if you reach 60% relative humidity, it’s time to look for the source of the added moisture; above 70% relative humidity, certain species of mold can begin growing.