The wet season in the winter months is one of the best times of year for molds to grow. Often mold is near sources of water where it can easily grow and reproduce. As it grows, mold can breakdown and compromise the integrity and strength of the source in which it lives.

Mold spores are microscopic and are naturally found in the air we breathe indoors and outdoors. When large amounts of spores grow, one’s health may be compromised. Mold can be killed, but if it is not removed properly, it can remain in the area just cleaned and the dry spores can be released into the air. If mold is a problem or concern, you can professionally have it removed by a mold remediation company.

Prevention, however, is what will help keep you healthy and your home in good shape. Here is a list of tips that can help you avoid reduce or avoid mold issues.

• Keep all areas outside of your home clean.
• Make sure there is good air circulation. Use an exhaust fan or open a window when showering, cooking, and washing the dishes.
• Spread moisture-barrier materials in crawl spaces over the soil. Make sure there is good ventilation in the crawl space and, if possible, do not enclose it.
• Heating your home for a short period of time can help remove humidity. After heating, open the doors and windows, or use an exhaust fan, to let out the air that is moist.
• Make sure that you have no roof leaks.
• If there are freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack and/or burst.
• Make sure all the seals on the windows and doors are in good-working condition.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground around your building slopes away from the foundation so water does not collect around or enter in to it.
• Act quickly if you see condensation on windows, pipes, or walls inside a building. Dry out the area and determine if the source of the condensation is from a leak or the result of high humidity.
• Have your HVAC duct system checked. Ducts that are not properly maintained can have buildup of dirt, mold, or bacteria that can be harmful to your environment.

We at Action Heating and Air Conditioning hope that you found this information helpful. If dirty ducts are a concern, please call us at 251 272-5900 to obtain an estimate on cleaning your HVAC duct system. We have been in the HVAC system business since 1997 serving Mobile and Baldwin County. You are welcome to visit our website at www.callaction.net  to meet our team of professionals as well as view all the services we offer. There are also money saving discounts available.