In nature, mold plays an important role in breaking down the remnants of organic matter such as leaves, branches and brush. Outdoors mold is usually harmless but when it comes to your home, you’ll want to avoid this fungus at all costs. Since mold spores have the ability to replicate quickly, the problem can get out of hand if the proper measures are not taken to eliminate its presence. Homeowners should educate themselves in order to keep mold at bay.
Allergies
Mold can cause a host of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. These responses occur when the immune system becomes overwhelmed. Common symptoms of mold exposure include:
- runny nose,
- rash
- sneezing
- headaches
- asthma attack
Fortunately, homeowners can reverse these symptoms by getting to the root of the problem and eliminating it.
Inspect Your Home
Mold thrives best when moisture is present. Once it comes in contact with a wet surface, its spores begin to replicate, which in turn worsens the issue. Checking for mold is crucial in order to eradicate it before it grows out of control.You can begin your inspection by visibly searching for any signs of mold growth. Look for telltale signs of mold such as discolored or stained areas on your walls, floors or ceiling, and peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper.
Eliminating Mold
in order to effectively eliminate mold, it’s crucial to rid your home of excess moisture and to dry any wet surfaces completely. If your home has any areas that are prone to moisture, consider purchasing a portable dehumidifier to dry out that location. If your problem is more widespread, consider installing a whole-house dehumidifier. You should also check the piping in your home for possible leaks. Special solutions that are applied directly onto the moldy surface can be purchased to treat any mold that is found in your home. A plumbing or HVAC expert can recommend the best product based on your situation.
For more information on mold, or for answers to other HVAC questions, please contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning for expert advice. We provide reliable services to Lorain, Erie and Cuyahoga counties.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area