There are many reasons why you wouldn’t want mold present in your home. Besides the fact that mold is unpleasant to look at, it can also cause a number of health issues, ranging from minor skin conditions to serious respiratory problems. The good news is that mold is relatively easy to address and remove if the correct process is followed.

Mold thrives in humid conditions. That’s why it’s commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where humidity levels may be higher than usual. A good mold remediation plan should always take humidity into consideration. By treating the underlying problem — excess moisture — you can stop mold in its tracks and prevent it from making a comeback.

How Does Dehumidification Help Fight Mold?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the ideal indoor relative humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. Anything above 60 percent and the risk of mold is much greater. Dehumidification using a dehumidifier will help to reduce the levels of relative humidity in the air and control mold. While dehumidifiers don’t kill mold, they create a less-than-favorable environment for it to grow and spread.

Dehumidifiers help to reduce moisture levels by drawing excess moisture out of the air. In addition to controlling the growth of mold, dehumidifiers help to address other problems that might be present in your environment. When humidity levels are too high, dust, pet dander, and other allergens can take over your home. These contaminants can cause sneezing, skin rashes, a stuffy nose and red and itchy eyes. Dehumidification is a highly effective way of tackling these contaminants and leaving your air fresher and cleaner.  And when you have cleaner and dryer air circulating through your home, your HVAC system will work more efficiently, helping you to save money on your energy costs.

Other Ways to Control Excess Moisture in the Home

The build-up of moisture in the home can be tricky to control but never impossible. Here are some more practical ways you can reduce moisture in your home and eliminate the growth of mold:

• Keep windows open where possible or use fans, especially when cooking
• Ensure there is good airflow throughout your home by keeping doors to rooms open and air vents unobstructed
• Turn on the extractor fan every time the shower is used
• Test humidity levels in the air using a hygrometer or arrange for professional testing
• Repair any plumbing problems in the kitchen, basement or bathroom

What Happens Next?

Dehumidification is just one step in the mold remediation process. With the right dehumidifier installed, moisture levels will be returned back to normal levels and mold will be controlled and contained. From here, the mold cleaning and removal process can take place. It may also be beneficial to have an air purifier installed. These systems can help with mold problems by eliminating mold spores from the atmosphere and leaving your air cleaner and safer for everybody.

For a FREE evaluation of your home, contact the team at Southern Climate Solutions today. We’re experts in dehumidification and dedicated to creating a safe, comfortable and healthy home for our customers.