The word mold uttered can make any homeowner cringe, especially a Floridian. But what exactly is mold, what can you do to prevent mold growth inside the home, and how can your Florida air conditioning unit play a role in stopping mold growth?
Molds are organisms that are microscopic in size and grow when excessive moisture accumulates on something. Outdoor molds, in some circumstances, can actually play a beneficial role in nature. Molds break down and consume organic material like dead leaves or trees. While outdoors mold may have some positive effects in the circle of life, mold growth indoors is absolutely not okay.
Mold can actually be extremely harmful to humans and other creatures living inside a household. There is no such thing as a good amount of mold in the home. The health risks with indoor mold include, but are not limited to: allergy symptoms, sneezing, runny nose, skin rashes, headaches, and even asthma attacks.
The key to mold control is moisture control, thus humidity and temperature play a pivotal role in contributing to or controlling mold growth. By monitoring the moisture in your home, you can reduce mold growth while avoiding potential health problems and possible damage to your home and belongings. While we now know that mold grows when there is excessive moisture present, it is also important to note that molds spread by producing tiny reproductive cells called spores that breeze through the air.
Since mold flourishes in warm, humid environments, having a properly functioning, well-maintenance air conditioner designed to help dehumidify your home (remove moisture from the conditioned air) is crucial. Circulation of air throughout your house via an efficient air conditioning system will also aid in preventing mold growth. By moving cool air around the home and capturing humidity, your air conditioning unit plays a very important role in indoor mold prevention. Keep in mind, if mold spores are discovered at high indoor levels, you need to contact some type of removal or treatment service of the affected area(s) by professionals.
So, how confident are you that your air conditioner is doing its part to prevent mold in your household? Neglecting to regularly maintain your air conditioner can prevent it from working effectively, which in turn, can lead to mold growth. Mason Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. has been providing maintenance, repairs and installing new Florida air conditioning units for years to the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Bradenton areas. To schedule your complimentary service visit today, please call 727-433-9853 or contact us online.