Planning a family vacation this season? While it’s great to get out of town during the sweltering summer months, Florida residents need to think about controlling their homes’ humidity levels. After all, excess moisture can lead to mold and other hazards affecting your family’s health and the overall value of your property.
Below are some of air conditioning experts’, Del-Air’s tips for preventing mold growth and protecting your home when you aren’t around.
Mold grows best in the home when certain environmental conditions are met. Along with the presence of spores and a viable food source, mold requires a warm, moisture-rich climate to prosper. Needless to say, most homeowners don’t want to support the growth of mold. To protect your property when you’re away, it’s important to manage humidity in the home by running the AC cooler in the early hours of the morning when the air is moist. Additionally, you can take the following steps to control mold growth while you’re on vacation:
- Move Houseplants Outside: Wondering why mold growth has increased in the home? The issue could be that water is evaporating from indoor potted plants. If you can’t replant indoor greenery outside the home, consider moving plants to a part of the house with better air circulation.
- Turn Off the Water Valve: Another crucial step in preventing mold growth in the home is to turn off the main water valve before leaving for vacation. In the event that a pipe bursts, the ensuing flood can cause a great deal of water and mold damage. If you’re not watering the lawn while you’re gone, consider turning off the valve until you return.
- Seal Air Leaks: If you’re worried about mold in the home, you may also want to take a look at the gaps around windows and doors. Air leaks allow moisture to seep through and can result in mold and general water damage. For best results, seal these spaces with caulking or weatherstripping.
- Close the Flue: Finally, homeowners looking to guard against mold should take a moment to close the flues on their fireplaces. Because water and organic substances collect in brick crevices, the fireplace can be a breeding ground for mold. For best results, close the flue and arrange for chimney caps and flashings to be cleaned regularly.
Improve Your Home’s Air Quality with Del-Air
Excess humidity can lead to a number of problems for the Florida homeowner including mold growth and water damage. Fortunately, Del-Air is there to help residents reduce moisture in the home while improving their health and comfort year round. For more air conditioning tips, call today or browse the Del-Air blog online.
