Indoor mold growth is a chronic issue in Florida homes. Florida’s natural high humidity levels and hot climates create the perfect breeding ground for mold colonies indoors around the state. Mold prevention should become a second nature for Florida homeowners to protect the longevity of the residents and home itself. With the ability to grow on almost any surface, a mold problem can quickly get out of control. Preventing mold can be a simple task when you routinely take proactive measures in protecting your home.
1. Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels
Indoor humidity levels should be monitored and managed, maintaining an indoor humidity level around 30-60%. Humidity levels can be increased by several factors, most commonly the HVAC systems due to the condensation it creates. Be sure to clean and dry up any water from the drip pan or around vents, and monitor dampness around the HVAC system itself. After a rainfall, check for water or condensation around doors or windows. These areas are most vulnerable after a rainfall for water accumulation, and can quickly produce mold if not cleaned and dried promptly.
2. Limit the use of indoor plants
Unknown to most, the use of indoor plants can promote mold growth. The necessary water that is needed for plant upkeep can turn the pot and plant into the perfect home for mold.
3. Inspect high risk areas for water damage or leaks
Areas of your home that have higher risk of water damage are any areas that have high contact with plumbing such as bathrooms, basements/crawl spaces, or under sinks. Mold grows in wet damp places such as these, so inspect these areas routinely and clean up any leaks or spills as soon as possible. Attics can be another troublesome place that tends to be damp due to its close proximity to the outdoors, heat, and condensation build up. Mold can grow in the attic of a home and quickly spread to adjacent walls or ceilings in the home without being visible. Check these high-risk areas regularly for water and mold presence.
4. Be mindful of you’re A/C usage
Most homes in Florida use an air conditioner daily to combat outdoor heat. Reducing the use of your A/C unit can not only save you money on energy bills, but also decrease your chances of mold growth by eliminating the condensation build up in your vents that mold thrives on.
5. Utilize your extractor fans
A relaxing hot shower is wonderful for a tired body, but even more wonderful for mold. The steam build-up after a hot shower or bath can cause mold to grow in the bathroom walls or on bathroom surfaces such as tiles or floor creases. Using the extractor fan during, and for 15 minutes after, a shower or bath can push that excess moisture outside, along with your chances of mold.
6. Replace HVAC filters every three months
Replacing the HVAC filters quarterly will help ensure your air is clean, and limit the amount of mold spores that are spread through your ventilation system. As previously mentioned, the air vents create the perfect environment for mold and when not routinely cared for mold spores and other contaminants in the vents can be spread through your home as the HVAC system runs. Replacing filters will not stop all possible spreading, however, quarterly filter changes and annual professional air duct cleaning can significantly decrease the chances of mold growth or air contaminant spread. In addition to filter changes and professional air duct cleaning, it is important to continue regular cleaning and maintenance of air duct registers, return air registers, window air conditioning units, or any air purifiers.
At iMold we strongly believe that mold preventative practices are a staple in routine Florida home care and maintenance. Should you suspect that mold is present in your home reach out to our customer service line to arrange an appointment with our experienced certified technicians. With prompt service and years of excellence, allow us help you quickly remediate your mold problems.