Mold’s microscopic spores can get into your Gainesville, Florida, home through your HVAC system, gaps in your insulation, doors, and windows. It’s impossible to keep all mold spores out, and mold can grow almost anywhere. Some molds cause flu-like symptoms and aggravate allergies and asthma. You can prevent mold growth and improve your indoor air quality by controlling the humidity in your home, adding ventilation, and using a UV lamp to kill mold spores.
Controlling Humidity
Mold can’t grow without moisture, so controlling humidity can prevent it from forming in your home. Signs of high humidity include condensation on walls, windows, or pipes. You can use a dehumidifier to get rid of condensation. Whole-home models connect directly to your ductwork and dehumidify your entire home. Portable dehumidifiers are less expensive, but they only work in smaller areas. Make sure your gutters direct water at least 10 feet away from your home to prevent water damage and mold near your foundation.
Ventilation
Ventilation removes stale air and mold spores and brings fresh air into your home. Energy recovery ventilators or ERVs use a filter to remove any contaminants so they can introduce fresh air. These ERVs also have a heat exchanger that works like a heat pump, using energy from the outgoing stale air to condition the incoming fresh air. This is more efficient than using your heater or air conditioner. You should also use a vent or exhaust fan when you cook, shower, or do laundry.
Adding a UV Lamp
A UV lamp also called a UV air purifier, kills mold, bacteria, viruses, and dust mites by damaging their genetic structure. Coil sterilization lights attach to the inside of your HVAC system’s air handler with a strong magnet to stop mold growth that results from condensation on the coil. You can also install an air sterilization UV lamp in your ductwork that only turns on when you use your HVAC system. That way, it will use less energy.
Bounds Heating & Air can help you prevent mold and improve your indoor air quality. We install, maintain, and repair equipment for all your HVAC needs. Call us anytime at 352-472-2761.
