As the cooler fall weather approaches, many homeowners start planning for the upcoming holiday season. But fall is also a prime time for mold to grow as temperatures reach their optimum levels for spores to multiply.
Statistics show that approximately 4.6 million asthma sufferers in the United States can attribute their symptoms to mold exposure in their homes.
If you’re looking for ways to do some mold prevention in your Humble, Texas home, read on to learn more.
Start with the Outside
Proper mold prevention actually begins with the exterior of your home. Fallen leaves and other debris can cause water to sit, creating the warm, moist organic environment that mold spores thrive on.
Remove dead leaves and any other debris away from the exterior walls of your house. Mold spores can travel by air, which means that those Humble, TX autumn breezes can blow them right into your house if they’re nearby.
Autumn is also a great time to inspect your downspouts and clean the gutters. Fallen leaves can clog gutters, creating the ultimate breeding ground for mold spores. This is also a good time to make sure that the water is flowing and draining away from your home.
Clean off your patio furniture in the fall before you store it away during the winter. Look for a nontoxic outdoor furniture cleaner that contains ingredients designed to remove dirt and grime. Always make sure that garden tools, patio furniture, and kid’s toys are completely dry before putting them in storage.
The fall season is a good time of year to do a roof inspection. Check your roof carefully and look for any signs of loose or missing shingles, which can cause moisture to get into the attic. A leaking roof can not only wreak havoc on your home, but it can also promote mold growth.
Mold Prevention Inside
If there is a leak inside your home, mold damage can spread quickly. Fall is an excellent time of year to do a quick plumbing inspection.
Colder weather and low temperatures can cause some pipes to crack and eventually leak. Check underneath your sinks, look at appliance connection hoses, and do a general plumbing overview to ensure everything is in good condition.
The indoor humidity is also something to check on, as mold thrives in humid, moist environments. Although cooler temperatures tend to bring drier air, it’s still important to monitor humidity levels.
If your indoor humidity is at 65 percent or more, use a dehumidifier. This small, affordable appliance can help to remove excess humidity from the air and keep mold spores at bay. Try to keep indoor humidity between 30 and 50 percent if possible for ideal conditions all fall and winter long.
Whether you’re cleaning the kitchen, bathroom, or living room, choose products that contain mold-killing ingredients. This simple step adds yet another layer of protection.
Simple Mold Maintenance Tips
Since mold loves moisture, try to clean up any spills or standing water both inside and outside of your home. Check the areas around tubs, sinks, and showers, and try to keep them dry as much as possible.
Put wet towels directly into the washing machine instead of letting them pile up on the floor. If you’re worried about too much moisture in the bathroom, you can also wipe shower walls dry with a clean towel after every shower.
Air ventilation and air circulation are very important for mold maintenance and prevention. Use an exhaust fan when you bathe or take a shower, and keep a fan in the kitchen so you can use it whenever you’re washing dishes or cooking using water.
It’s also vital to ensure that you have some kind of moisture barrier in your crawlspace or basement. Plastic sheathing or special moisture-resistant paint are two affordable options. Blocking excess moisture at the foundation will help to keep the interior of your home drier
Fall is also a great time to do some decluttering. Remove excess items you no longer need from the home and make sure that curtains and furniture are not blocking your air vents. Move large pieces of furniture away from floor vents so that the air can circulate more effectively.
Do an HVAC Check
If your indoor humidity is too high, it could be because your air conditioning system needs attention. Make sure that the thermostat is set to the proper temperature and that everything is cycling on and off as it should. Replace your HVAC filter and use a special filter rated for mold to keep it at bay.
Check to see if the AC is blowing cold air when it reaches the set point on your thermostat. You should also check the coils to make sure that they’re clean and free of any dust or debris.
Fall is an excellent time to do some HVAC maintenance or make that important HVAC repair you’ve been putting off. Check the condensate drain pipe to ensure that it’s dripping regularly. This is the small, narrow white pipe that sticks out of the side of the unit.
You can prevent blockage and mold issues by pouring one cup of bleach mixed with water down the condensate drain once per year or so. If you think there are any issues with your HVAC system, it’s a good time to contact your Humble HVAC companies for help.
When the weather is nice in Humble, TX, consider opening your windows instead of running the AC or heater. Not only will this promote good air circulation, but you’ll also save a bit of money on your monthly energy bills.
Say Goodbye to Mold Today
Remember these crucial fall mold prevention tips to keep your Humble, TX home safe and dry all season long. With a bit of diligence and careful maintenance, your home can remain mold-free for years to come.
If you need assistance with indoor humidity, HVAC issues, or other services, contact Guy’s AC today. We serve many areas in Texas including Atascocita, Conroe, Houston, Huffman, Humble, Kingwood, New Caney, Porter, Spring, and The Woodlands.
