How Your Air Conditioning Affects Mold Growing Conditions
Ready for summer? Crank up that AC – it’s not just good for cooling you down; it also could keep mold from growing. This is especially true if you live in a region with high humidity – warm, moist air creates the perfect breeding ground for mold. Cooling the air reduces its capacity to hold and carry moisture by 10X!
That said, air conditioning can cause condensation on surfaces, as the moisture in the air has to go somewhere. How do you reap the benefits of air conditioning when it comes to indoor air quality and mold prevention, without having condensation cause new problems?
Start with making sure your air conditioner is properly installed and maintained. Then check airflow. Controlling the airflow controls moisture. Make sure outdoor air isn’t getting in the house (the best air conditioning systems don’t suck air in from an outside source. Instead, they use the air already in the house.)
If you notice condensation collecting on any surfaces in the home (even just on the windows) that means you could be getting condensation in less visible places as well – like inside your walls. It’s time to check the source out.
Go and look around your installed air conditioner for condensation or drips from PVC pipes. While the cooler temperature will help prevent some kinds of mold from growing, moisture can still be an issue. “The dry guys” can identify mold issues and put mold remediation into action if you have an existing problem, and then you should install a dehumidifier.
A dehumidifier gives the moisture in the air someplace to go that isn’t into the walls. This can help you prevent the growth of mold on drywall or on the underside of wallpaper.
You can also run exhaust fans in areas with high humidity, like bathrooms. Close the vents in these rooms when showering, so cold air doesn’t blow in, and after you shower open the vents and turn on the fan. The combination of air conditioning and exhaust will help dry the air in the room and prevent mold in the walls and under the floor.
Condensation isn’t as big of a problem with older houses, as the structures aren’t as airtight. You can cool your home with AC and use a dehumidifier to deal with humidity form outside air leaking into the home. With newer houses, you may be able to use the dehumidifier only at the start of the year, after which the closed AC system will keep air cool and dry and help prevent the formation of mold.
Are you unsure if you have a mold issue? Call “the dry guys” and ask for an evaluation. They know the problem spots for mold and can advise you on mold prevention, mold remediation, and more!