You know that mold can have negative side effects in your body, and maybe by now, you know what side effects to be looking for. But do your pets experience the same symptoms? If not, what symptoms should you be looking for in your pets to ensure that they’re staying healthy and that your home is mold-free? Here’s the answer to “How does mold affect my pet?”
Fever
Yes, just like humans, pets can get fevers too. When your pet inhales mold spores, fever can be a big side effect. But how can you tell if your pet has a fever? The same way you would measure your own temperature: with a thermometer. However, your pet isn’t going to sit still to get a true reading. That’s why It’s important to take them to the vet if you’re concerned.
Breathing in mold spores can have negative consequences for your pet just as much as it can for you. With that in mind, respiratory issues may be the most telling sign that your pet has been exposed to mold. If you find that your pet is panting and taking rapid, shallow breaths, even while laying down, that could be an indication that they’re having issues breathing.
Coughing has also been linked to mold exposure, in humans as well as pets. If your pet sounds like they’re trying to dislodge something deep inside their throat, then maybe mold is to blame.
Sneezing
Mold exposure causes allergies in people and pets alike. Allergies in pets also have similar symptoms to those we experience. Sneezing is a sign that your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction, and it might just be mold that they’re allergic to.
The trouble is that pets sneeze for a number of reasons: Something tickled them while they were sniffing around, they bumped their nose on something, or they’re trying to indicate that they’re playing and not fighting. Before you jump to the conclusion that your pet is sneezing due to a mold allergy, consider their other symptoms and the events that occurred right before they started sneezing.
Nasal Discharge
This symptom is a little more cut and dry. It’s a sure indication that your pet needs medical attention, if not one that there’s mold in your home. Nasal discharge shows that your pet is pretty sick. While a wet nose is a sign of good health, a leaky nose is a rare sight and easy to spot for that reason.
In extreme cases, your pet may even bleed from their nose or mouth if they’ve been exposed to mold. Nasal discharge is a sign of sickness, but blood is an emergency. Take your pet to the vet right away and have your home inspected by a mold remediation specialist.
Call RestoPros for Mold Inspection & Removal Services
If you even suspect mold may be in your home, contact a professional right away. Mold exposure can be dangerous for both you and your pets, so you should never try to inspect it or remove it yourself. The workers at RestoPros are here to help. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
You love and want to protect your pets from mold, and with 70% of the US owning more than 150 million cats and dogs (not even counting the other animals), it’s no secret as to why. Understandably, we want to keep them happy and healthy for a whole host of reasons. Even if we set aside the basic concept of trying to take care of a part of the family, considering the medical expenses of a sick pet is enough to make anyone with a furry friend do their best to keep them healthy.
Unfortunately, cats and dogs (especially the smaller the dog gets) are susceptible to mold, more so than the average human. This increased sensitivity comes at the price of increased vigilance. Some common symptoms include:
Decreased appetite, vomiting, and bathroom problems
Respiratory issues like coughing or wheezing
Excessive sneezing and nasal problems
Lethargy
Excessive tending to specific areas; scratching, licking, or chewing
Among other things, these are potential warning signs that you should pay attention to. Fret not, there are several things we can do to protect your pets against mold.
Remove Your Pet from the Environment
Until it’s established what exactly is causing the problem, isolating your pet and keeping them out of problem rooms (or the house altogether) is an excellent first choice. Cleaning out their living area, getting rid of any dog toys, bedding, and usual items they have around them for most of the day should be the first priority. If it’s something that’s hard rubber or plastic, it can generally be disinfected. But cloth, fabric, or has lots of porous holes or corners and crevices, you may consider tossing it out!
Don’t Let Your Pet Eat Spoiled Food
Dog owners know that their dog will, at some point, become curious about the food in the trash can. Even in a mold-free home the trash may contain spoiled or rotten food. Dogs don’t seem to be particular about it and might take a chance to enjoy an extra meal. While they’re eating it, they’ll also be breathing it in, which is a double whammy of risk. If possible, secure the trash cans away from the animal or in a container or device that’s more tamper-proof than a small plastic bin. Additionally, even the most well-behaved dogs may be eating their food as intended. This food may even be contaminated if stored improperly! Make sure their food stays in a nice and dry place while being stored away.
Dehumidify
If your pet spends a lot of time hanging out in moist environments, like a basement, you might consider getting a dehumidifier to help reduce the risk of moist, dark environments that are prime spots for mold and mildew to grow.
Get an Inspection
If you feel like this is a real problem, or you’d like to make sure it never becomes one, call the experts at RestoPros today! They have licensed and experienced professionals that can answer your questions and even set up an appointment for an inspection!
Traditionally, you’ll see home service workers wearing dust
masks when dealing with certain allergens. Your HVAC technician will likely
wear one when they’re cleaning your ductwork. Doctors will wear these masks to avoid
spreading germs. There’s something to be said about this inexpensive protective
layer. But do dust masks protect against mold?
How Do Dust Masks Protect Against Allergens?
Dust masks protect against airborne allergens by acting as a
shield or a dam for the spores. Allergens are really anything someone can be
allergic to, but the most common airborne allergens include pollen, dust,
grass, dander, and other miniscule debris. If the spores can’t access your
respiratory system (the openings for which are your nose and mouth), then they
can’t cause an allergic reaction in the airway.
But does that apply to mold?
Is Mold an Allergen?
Yes! While mold can be harmful to the respiratory system in
general, mold can cause a specific allergic reaction for some people.
Mold can cause these reactions for anyone:
Itchiness
Wheezing
Skin rashes
Eye redness
Coughing
Sinus issues
Watery eyes
For people who are allergic to mold, these are the separate
reactions they can experience:
Postnasal drip
Deep coughing
Expanded itchiness (into the nose and throat)
Dry skin, scaly appearance
Sneezing
Tightness in the chest
Nasal congestion
In both cases, respiratory issues are a side effect of mold,
which means that a dust mask can protect against mold – to a certain degree.
Do Dust Masks Protect Against Mold?
Yes, dust masks protect against mold, but only to a point.
Dust masks offer some respiratory protection, meaning that
you won’t breath in the spores, as the mask will block them from getting into
your lungs. However, dust masks will not protect against physical contact with
mold. Your skin can experience an adverse reaction, such as a rash, itchiness,
hives, or discoloration.
What’s more: If you have mold in your home, a dust mask will
not be a long-term solution. The best thing to do if you believe there is mold
in your home, particularly in your ventilation system, is call a specialist.
There’s Mold in My Home! What Should I Do?
If you know or suspect that there’s mold in your home, the
safest next step is to contact a licensed mold remediation specialist. RestoPros
is here to help. We’re the only mold remediation company that has a registered
nurse and a safety officer as full-time staff members. We take safety very
seriously: At every job site, we set up first aid kits, eye washing stations,
and fire extinguishers.
Take your life back by restoring your peace of mind. Get
24/7 emergency mold removal services from RestoPros!
Call 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals
today!
The term “mold” might have been thrown around your home a few times. But most likely, if you have never directly dealt with it, you may not know that much about it. Where and how does it grow? What does it look like? Does it have any adverse health effects? The team at RestoPros has answers to all these questions with this helpful list of essential facts you should know about mold!
1. It Can Have an Effect on Your Health
Can mold have adverse health effects? The answer is; it
depends. If you or someone in your family is susceptible to allergies or has
asthma, chances are prolonged exposure to actively growing mold can have a
negative impact on your health.
21
percent of the current asthma cases in the United States can be attributed
to dampness and mold spores in the home. If you have asthma, mold exposure
could possibly worsen it. Inhaling these spores can produce more mucus and even
cause the lungs to constrict. This can lead to wheezing, coughing and shortness
of breath. To prevent mold spores from
triggering your asthma, you will have to limit
your exposure to mold by maintaining the humidity in your home and ensuring
proper ventilation.
Similarly, inhaling allergens like mold spores can also lead to sinusitis or sinus infections and another condition called mold-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In order to prevent these reactions, it’s important to do saline rinses to keep sinuses clean, thoroughly clean out ventilation systems and to stay hydrated.
2. You Can Find Mold Anywhere
This might sound a little confusing, so we will clarify. Yes, mold is everywhere as mold spores are always present in our outdoor and indoor environments. Even if you show allergy symptoms to mold, a small mold count is not a problem. It IS a problem, when there is excessive moisture build up and mold begins to actively grow because of this. Therefore, it is important that moisture and humidity is well-controlled to prevent mold from starting to infest your home.
3. You Can Prevent Mold by Controlling Moisture
This is one of the most important facts you should know about mold. As we mentioned before, while mold is a problem, it can be controlled and prevented. The best way to prevent mold is by controlling the moisture and humidity in your home. Here are some ways you can do this:
Your AC plays a big role in maintaining the humidity of your home as well. Make sure its air filter is clean and free of dirt and debris.
Don’t let moisture linger after you’re done using the shower. Take a minute to squeegee the walls of your bathroom to remove moisture
Make sure your home is leak-free
Wipe around your kitchen and bathroom sinks when you’re done using them
4. Let the Pros Handle Mold Removal
If you think you might have actively growing mold in your home, your first thought might be to save some money and handle it yourself using a store-bought mold test kit. However, that’s not a good idea as mold test kits aren’t always reliable. By handling mold removal yourself, especially if it’s a considerably affected area, you will probably do more harm than good. In addition, there are regulations that require that you must be licensed to perform mold-related activities such as assessment and remediation. It is best to contact a professional who has the right knowledge and experience to safely deduce the mold problem in your home.
5. You Cannot Paint Over Mold
Painting or caulking over mold is not the solution to removing or preventing mold. The mold will continue to grow under the paint and the paint will simply peel. It’s best to remove the mold before you do any painting.
RestoPros: DFW’s Mold Removal Experts!
Now that you’re aware of these facts you will be better
prepared to prevent a mold infestation. If you think you have a mold problem,
get in touch with the experts at RestoPros. Our trustworthy and experienced
team of professionals performs water damage restoration, mold testing and mold
remediation in the Dallas-Forth Worth area. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or
fill out a service request form on our website!
The term “black mold” is often used a blanket term to give the impression that mold is a highly toxic monster waiting to enter your home and wreak havoc on your kitchen, bathroom or basement. While mold is problem that should be dealt with before it gets out of hand, it’s important to understand the facts behind it to ensure you’re informed and prepared. If you suspect you have mold growth in your home, keep reading this guide from the team at RestoPros to answer your nagging question: What is black mold?
What is Black Mold?
Mold in
general is a type of fungus that spreads through spores and can be found
indoors and outdoors. While mold spores are often present everywhere, usually
floating through the air or in dust, they grow in damp and moist conditions.
That is why your kitchen, bathroom and basement are prone to mold—they are the
damper areas in your home.
Black mold
is not a specific type or species of mold. The term “black mold” is often used
by news media to describe molds that produce mycotoxins. One
of the species of molds that produce mycotoxins (toxic substances released by
certain fungi) is Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra which is often
referred to as black mold.
Stachybotrys atra is greenish-black in color and can grow on
dust and lint as well as in areas where there is excessive moisture from
humidity, water damage or flooding. There is no specific information about how
often stachybotrys atra is found in residential buildings. It’s not rare but it
is not as common as other mold species such as Aspergillus, Alternaria and
Penicillium.
Is Black Mold Dangerous?
Now that you know what black mold is, it’s time you learned
the facts about whether it is dangerous or not.
The most important thing to note about the dangers and
health impacts of mold is that its effects depend on the individual. Usually,
people susceptible to allergies might have a reaction to the presence of mold
or more accurately, the toxins produced by mold. There is little information on
the health effects of mycotoxins, but the consensus is that prolonged and
direct exposure might lead to some reaction.
It has also been found that people with weaker immune
systems might be more likely to get mold infections. In addition to that,
people with asthma who encounter molds might experience the worsening of their
asthma symptoms. Mold spores inhaled by
people with asthma or those who are allergic to mold can cause their lungs
to constrict and produce more mucus. This can lead to coughing, wheezing and
shortness of breath.
How Do You Prevent Black Mold?
Just like other molds, black mold must immediately be
removed to prevent any health risks as well as property damage. Here are some
ways you can prevent black mold:
Mold requires excess moisture to grow so it is
important you maintain the moisture and humidity levels in your home. Ideally,
the humidity levels must be kept between 30-50 percent to prevent mold. Invest
in a hygrometer or a dehumidifier
to control your humidity levels.
Ensure your home has proper ventilation
(especially damp spaces such as your bathroom) by using your exhaust fans.
Keep your house clean and dust-free as much as
you can. Regularly replace your AC air filters, clean out your fridge and
ensure there are no clogs or leaks in your kitchen and bathroom.
At RestoPros we believe in arming our customers with the
right information about mold removal so they can tackle mold when they see it.
However, keep in mind that the best way you can be mold-free is with the help
of professionals. Get in touch with the experts at RestoPros for our
top-notch mold removal and remediation
services by calling 855-587-3786 or by scheduling a service on our website!
There are few things more exhausting to cope with than allergies. From springtime sneeze attacks to missing out on playing with your friend’s new puppy, allergies keep you from many things. However, if you suffer from mold allergies, you face daily triggers that are everywhere, and don’t disappear with springtime. Are you looking for simpler methods to ease your day-to-day symptoms? Well, the experts at RestoPros are here to help by telling you about some common mold allergies and homeopathic solutions.
Identifying Your Mold Allergies:
First of all, you must identify the type of mold that’s causing the reaction. Moreover, it’s important to identify the type of mold so you can understand the symptoms that come with exposure. Therefore, to help you navigate your own symptoms, here are some common mold allergies:
1. Alternaria Allergy
• Characteristics:
Dark green, black, or grey with long velvety hairs, Alternaria is a mold that requires very little moisture to grow.
• Where it Grows:
Because it requires minimal moisture to grow, Alternaria is commonly found on carpets, clothing, basements, windows, and doors.
• Symptoms:
If you’re suffering from exposure to this type of mold, you’ll experience symptoms similar to hay fever. In addition to the hay fever symptoms, you may also experience respiratory problems and asthma.
2. Aspergillus Allergy
• Characteristics:
Because it can be grey, brown, yellow, green, white, or black, Aspergillus is often tricky to identify from other molds. That being said, this type of mold grows very quickly once the spores are released.
• Where it Grows:
Although Aspergillus mold grows quickly, it does require more
moisture than Alternaria. As a prevalent household mold, it grows in walls,
soil, insulation, basements, and clothing.
• Exposure Symptoms:
Particularly harmful to people with weakened immune systems, such as young children and the elderly, Aspergillus can cause serious infections. Releasing aflatoxin, a chemical that can cause liver damage and cancer, Aspergillus is one of the more dangerous household molds to encounter.
3. Cladosporium Allergy
• Characteristics:
With a powdery texture and grey, brown, or black in color,
Cladosporium can have dark-pigmented conidia that occur in simple or branching
chains.
• Where it Grows:
As a mold that can grow on both dead and living matter, it is
commonly found on food, dead plants, insulation, wood, and dark, damp
environments, such as basements.
• Exposure Symptoms:
If exposed to Cladosporium, you may experience allergic reactions similar to hay fever. This can include dry skin, sneezing, runny nose, scratchy throat, coughing, and watery eyes. On the more severe end, you could also suffer asthma attacks, fungal sinusitis, tightness in your chest, and difficulty breathing.
4. Memnoniella Allergy
• Characteristics:
Although very similar to Stachybotrys, Memnoniella mold is
smaller and is usually a dark green or black color.
• Where it Grows:
Growing in damp areas like bathrooms and basements,
Memnoniella can also be found on cotton, wool, canvas, walls, and ceilings.
• Exposure Symptoms:
While this mold is less common and poses a lesser health risk than others, you can experience severe symptoms. Most commonly, these symptoms include respiratory problems, coughing, and headaches.
5. Penicillium Allergy
• Characteristics:
With over 300 species, Penicillium mold is typically blue or
green. Named after the Latin word for paintbrush, the spores of Penicillium
form into what closely resembles a paintbrush.
• Where it Grows:
As a mold that has been identified world-wide, Penicillium can grow anywhere. From air and soil to leather, food, and insulation, this is a prevalent household mold.
• Exposure Symptoms:
Although Penicillium has saved countless lives, there are species of Penicillium that produce toxic compounds. If a mold-sensitive individual is exposed to the spores, they can experience congestion, eye irritation, and coughing. If food with Penicillium mold is ingested, it will also irritate the stomach.
6. Stachybotrys Allergy
• Characteristics:
More notoriously known as toxic black mold, Stachybotrys is
dark green or black in color with a slimy texture.
• Where it Grows:
Because it thrives on material with a high cellulose and low nitrogen content, Stachybotrys is commonly found on fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, dust, and lint. Therefore, this toxic mold can grow in walls, ceilings, and floorboards as long as there is consistent moisture present.
• Exposure Symptoms:
As its commonly-known name denotes, Stachybotrys can cause severe headaches, asthma, dizziness, and joint pain. In addition to the physical symptoms, it can cause fatigue and mental impairment. Furthermore, exposure to Stachybotrys has been linked to cancer, internal organ failure, and multiple deaths infant deaths.
Homeopathic Solutions
Although general practitioner-prescribed medicines address the symptoms of mold allergies, they often miss the mark in tackling the cause. Moreover, many of these medications come with a laundry list of unwanted side effects. As a result, you may start to wonder if the mold allergies are worse than the side effects of the medication.
Rather than just address the symptoms, you can explore homeopathic solutions. As a better long-term option, homeopathic solutions tackle mold allergies from within, alleviating the stress on your immune system. To lay out some natural alternatives, here are some homeopathic solutions to explore:
1. Change Up Your Diet
For many mold allergy sufferers, the exposure doesn’t end with airborne spores. In fact, many foods contain mold spores that can wreak havoc on your immune system, if you’re mold sensitive. Consequently, simple changes in your diet can produce dramatic results in lessening your symptoms. Here are some examples of the diet changes you can make:
Remove These Foods from
Your Diet:
Mushrooms
Cheese
Pickles
Sour Cream
Vinegar
Buttermilk
Beer
Wine
High-Yeast Breads, like Pumpernickel
Sauerkraut
Soy Sauce
Pickled and Smoked Meats
Dried Fruit
Processed, Canned, and Bottled Foods
High Sugar Fruits, like pineapple,
mango, bananas, melons, oranges, and grapes
Add These Foods to Your
Diet:
Pastured and organic animal products, like beef, bison, lamb, veal, wild-caught seafood, poultry, and pastured eggs
Ginger, garlic, cayenne, and horseradish
Organic fresh fruit, like berries, apples, lemons, limes
Yeast-Free Breads, such as flatbreads and tortillas
Raw nuts and seeds, like sunflower, pumpkin, flax, and chia seeds, and low mold nuts like almonds
Extra virgin olive oil, coconut milk, coconut oil, organic butter, and avocados.
Filtered water, non-fruity herbal teas, mineral water, fresh veggie juice, low-mold alcohols like vodka and gin.
2. Add Some Herbs and Supplements
Another homeopathic measure to alleviate your symptoms is adding beneficial herbs and supplements to your diet. Here are some to include:
Garlic
Pau d’arco
Oregano Oil
Tea Tree Oil
Ginger
Apple Cider Vinegar
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Turmeric
Powdered Licorice
Lemongrass Oil
Berberine
Echinacea Angustifolia (Purple Coneflower)
Grape Seed Extract
Aloe Vera
Chamomile
Tannate Plant Extracts
Flaxseed Oil
Bioflavonoids
Probiotics
Vitamin C, A, and E
Zinc
3. Explore Some Herbal Medicine
In order to relieve your symptoms with more natural methods, you can explore some herbal medicines. Here are a few to consider:
Dong Quai
This serves as an effective anti-inflammatory and antihistamine.
Eyebright –
Use this medicine to reduce congestion, as well as itchy eyes and sneezing.
Gingko –
Containing bioflavonoids, this medicine is also an antihistamine and
anti-inflammatory.
Milk Thistle –
In addition to reducing allergic, inflammatory, and histaminic reactions, milk
thistle supports your liver function.
Red clover –
This medicine serves as a resistance-builder to mold.
Yarrow –
Yarrow alleviates congestion and reduces secretion.
Stinging nettles – Stinging nettles are another anti-inflammatory and antihistamine.
4. Take Some Natural Remedies
If you’re looking for a way to fortify your immune system against mold, here are some natural remedies to explore:
ThyroLiver Protect
To help detoxify your liver and support the production of glutathione, take 1-2 caps, twice a day of ThyroLiver Protect. Using selenium, milk thistle extract, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, this medicine helps your liver neutralize and process mold spores.
Super Glutathione
For added support to your liver and digestive tract, take 1-2 caps, twice a day of Super Glutathione.
Coconut Charcoal
To help your digestive tract detoxify mold spores, use 1-2 caps of coconut charcoal between meals and before bed.
Allium Cepa
Use this supplement to help with discharge from your eyes and nose, and to alleviate hoarseness.
Euphrasia
To alleviate discharge from your eyes and nose, a dry cough, sneezing, and diarrhea, take Euphrasia.
Natrum Muriaticum
For discharge from your eyes, cold sores, a loss of your sense of taste and smell, and headaches, take natrum muriaticum.
Wyethia
WWith Wyethia, you can alleviate extreme itchiness in the nose and throat, a swollen throat, and blocked nasal passages.
Nux Vomica
If you have a runny nose during the day and a dry nose at night, Nux Vomica may be what you need. Additionally, it can relieve sneeze attacks and outdoor reactions to pollen.
5. Reduce Exposure
Keep Your House Clean
Most harmful indoor mold growth starts with dust, dander, and moisture. Therefore, your best bet at keeping mold at bay in is keeping a clean home. This means regularly dusting and vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum to eliminate dust and dirt. Furthermore, you should keep damp places like your bathrooms, kitchen, and basement clean and dry.
Reduce Humidity Levels
Another important way to keep your home mold-free is regulating the humidity levels. In order to best track and control indoor humidity, we recommend purchasing a hygrometer and dehumidifier. In fact, many dehumidifiers contain a built-in hygrometer, allowing you to easily measure and maintain a healthy level of humidity.
Keep Outside Spores Outside
In order to avoid bringing harmful mold spores into your home, there are plenty of simple measures you can take. Since many mold spores are found in piles of leaves, grass, and dirt, your shoes can track them into your house. Therefore, you can avoid bringing them inside by taking off and leaving your shoes by the door. Also, you should wash your clothes and shower each evening, so you’re not taking any lingering spores to bed with you.
Filter Your Air
Because mold is everywhere, it’s impossible to avoid bringing it into your home. However, you can eliminate a large portion of it from your air. With the right air filtration system, you can breathe easy with clean, mold-free air. Additionally, there are many different air purifiers on the market with HEPA filters that are very effective in providing mold-free air.
Invest in Some Houseplants
One of our favorite natural ways to remove mold spores from your home air is keeping some purifying houseplants. In many cases, certain houseplants can even help improve conditions for asthma sufferers. For some 2-in-1 natural relief, here are some plants to consider keeping:
Peace Lilies
Mums
Spider Plants
Bamboo Palm
Areca Palm
Dracaena Plants
Snake Plants
Boston Fern
Aloe Plants
Stop Mold in Its Tracks with
RestoPros
Although you
can treat your mold allergies with homeopathic solutions, there are
preventative measures you can take to keep a mold-free home. With our
knowledgeable mold removal experts, the team at RestoPros is dedicated to
helping residents of the DFW area fight back against mold. For help from mold
removal experts you can trust, call us today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form on our website!
Mold and mildew can be deeply detrimental to your health and your home. If you, like most homeowners, shudder at the thought of it invading your house, learn how to protect your AC unit from mold by following these expert tips from the team at RestoPros.
1. Use the “Auto” Mode While You’re Away
Especially while you are away during the day or on vacation, keeping your AC unit running can control the humidity levels in your home. Therefore, you should set your unit to the “auto” mode while you are away, rather than turning your AC completely off. Mold tends to grow more commonly on AC units that have been dormant for a period of time.
2. Perform or Schedule Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance of your HVAC equipment is imperative to keeping everything in good working condition. Especially during the transition between winter and spring, you should have your AC unit professionally serviced. Because AC units are dark and warm on the inside, they can be an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. You can prevent this with good cleaning habits and regular maintenance.
3. Keep it Clean
As previously mentioned, keeping your AC unit clean can drastically reduce the chances of mold growth. Here are some cleaning tasks you can perform on your own between your annual tune-up visits:
Clean your exterior condenser/compressor.
Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove debris from the interior of your condenser/compressor. Then, use the brush attachment on a shop vac to remove outside dirt. Next, clean the fins by spraying them from the inside with a gentle garden hose. You can also use a fin cleaning spray for a deeper clean. Once you have done these tasks, be sure to clean the area around the unit, raking away leaves and trimming overgrowth.
Clean the evaporator coil on your indoor unit.
Opening the evaporator coil door on the blower/furnace unit, gently dust the coil with a soft brush. Then, spray the coil with no-rinse coil cleaner and allow it to foam and drip into the drain pan. Next, clean out the drain pan with soapy hot water and a little bit of bleach. Then, pour a cup of 50% bleach and 50% water down the drain.
Clean your plugged evaporator drain.
Over time, mold can build up in your evaporator drain. To clean it, find the drain line where it leaves the evaporator coil enclosure. Once you locate the end of this line, use a wet/dry vac to clear the drain.
4. Control Moisture
Moisture control within and around your AC unit is essential to mold prevention. Your ducts are the vessel through which all conditioned air travels to reach your home. Therefore, any mold growth in your ducts can threaten your air quality dramatically. To keep your ducts mold-free, you need to keep them moisture-free. You can do this by maintaining your draining channels and regularly checking for and repairing any leaks. If you ever find standing water anywhere in your duct system, you should have your system professionally serviced asap. In the case of window units, you should invest in models with humidity control.
5. Replace Your Air Filters Regularly
Because the blower filters in your HVAC system are the main line of defense between your indoor air and mold spores, changing them regularly is an important step to keep your AC unit mold-free. You should change these filters at least twice a year, but we recommend every 3-4 months for homeowners with pets or who live in a dusty area. Furthermore, we recommend using HEPA filters to remove the greatest volume of pollutants and allergens from your air.
6. Keep Your Home Clean
Although it may seem like the ultimate catch-22, a happy AC unit = clean air, and clean air = a happy AC unit. In other words, in order for your AC unit to stay clean and free of mold-causing dust particles, you should keep your home clean. Regularly dust and vacuum your home to reduce the level of particle buildup within your AC unit.
Call the RestoPros Team!
As experienced mold experts, we have a wealth of solutions to protect your AC unit from mold. If you are looking for professional help with mold intervention or remediation, call RestoPros today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form on our website!
So, you’ve had a professional mold testing done in your house and your worst suspicion has been confirmed. The very thought of this issue can strike fear into the heart of even the toughest homeowners. However, you can no longer deny the fact and it’s time to take some action. So, say it with me: My home has a mold problem! Now that you have accepted the worst, the experts at RestoPros are here to help with some advice about what you can do from here.
Supplies for Treating the Mold
In serious mold cases, most experts would recommend having professional mold remediation. However, if your professional mold testing expert has verified you can clean it yourself, here are some supplies you will need:
Protective Gear
You should have a mask or respirator, eye protection, rubber gloves, a fan, and a dehumidifier. You do not want to risk inhaling the mold spores you will be cleaning.
Cleaning Chemicals
If the intense list of protective gear was not a clear indication, mold is not something you can clean with everyday cleaning supplies. On the contrary, you will need to procure non-ammonia detergent, chlorine bleach, and white vinegar to mix your cleaning solution.
Cleaning Tools
Make sure you have plenty of rags and more than one scrub brush (both of which should be disposed of after you finish treating the mold). You should also have a large pail and a plastic garbage bag.
Steps for DIY Mold Treatment
1. Dampen the Area:
This is an important first step to keep mold spores from releasing into the air. With a damp rag soaked in plain water, coat the affected area.
2. Remove as Much Mold as Possible:
With your scrub brush and detergent, remove as much of the mold as you can, and dispose of the brush.
3. Mix and Apply Your Bleach Solution:
In your large pail, mix together 1 ½ cups of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water. Use a new rag to generously coat the affected surface with this mixture. Once this is done, let it soak for 15 minutes.
4. Scrub the Solution into the Affected Area:
With a new scrubbing brush, scrub the area with the bleach solution thoroughly and rinse with clean water. Repeat this bleach step until all visible mold is gone.
5. Eliminate All Moisture from the Treated Area:
Use your fan and dehumidifier to dry the area thoroughly to prevent new mold growth.
6. Wash Your Clothes:
Unless you chose to wear work clothes that you don’t mind disposing of, wash the clothes you wore for the mold treatment immediately. Place them in a plastic bag to transport them to the washing machine. Add ¾ cup white vinegar to the water to kill the mold spores on your clothing.
My Home Has a Mold Problem! What Else Can I Do?
If you have followed the previous steps and removed the mold on your own, you have already saved money on professional mold removal. The best thing you can do for the long-term safety of your home is to enlist the help of mold remediation experts you can trust. Let the knowledgeable team at RestoPros take it from here. Call us at (855) 587-3786 or fill out a service request form online to conquer your mold problem today!
Exposure to dampness or mold is the estimated cause of a quarter of all asthma cases in the United States. Even for non-asthmatic homeowners, living with a mold or mildew problem can pose serious health threats. Answering the mold vs. mildew question starts with learning what to look for. The experts at RestoPros are here to share our advice on how to spot the difference.
Mold vs. Mildew: Similarities
Environments
-Both mold and mildew are types of fungi that flourish in moist, humid conditions with scarce light.
-Both mold and mildew grow when spores or seeds find their way into environments that are conducive to colony growth.
Affected Hosts
-Neither mold nor mildew can grow on synthetic materials such as plastic and metal-based products.
Odors and Physical Symptoms
-Both mold and mildew produce a similar musty odor.
-Both mold and mildew can cause similar physical symptoms to humans who are exposed.
Mold vs. Mildew: Differences
Appearance
-Mildew can be downy or powdery. Downy mildew starts as yellow spots that become brighter and then turn brown in color. Powdery mildew is whitish in color and slowly turns yellowish brown and then black.
-Mold is black, yellow, or green with a fuzzy or slimy texture. Severe mold growth looks like moss and can cause rot in its effected host.
Growth Patterns
-Mildew is a type of mold that has flat growth patterns. Unlike mold, mildew remains on the surface of its host where is can be easily removed. Mildew is drawn to moisture and grows on damp surfaces like your kitchen, bathroom, and basement. You can find mildew growth in toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, and on bathroom walls.
-Mold is a fungus that grows in patches which penetrate beneath the surface of its host. Mold grows on living sources, including food, drywall, paper, and wood. Mold can often grow on your ceilings, window sills, and walls.
Effects on the Host
–Mildew can harm the food or plants upon which it grows, but usually does not cause any lasting damage to other surfaces such as tile floors or bathroom mirrors.
–Mold can damage entire structures because it penetrates beneath the surface of its host.
Effects on Exposed Humans
–Mildew can cause similar allergic reactions to those caused by mold, such as coughing, sneezing, headache, sore throat, and respiratory problems. However, mildew is much easier to eliminate because it remains on the surface of its host.
–Mold can pose a serious threat to your health. It can trigger sinus problems, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, sore throat, migraines, itching, rashes, fatigue, and even depression. Mold is difficult to remove because it penetrates below the surface of its host.
So, now you know some signs to look for when answering your mold vs. mildew question, but what should you do about your problem? Contact the experts at RestoPros for immediate mold testing and remediation today!
Mold is the last thing you want to live with in your home, as It causes musty odors, damage to your house, and dangerous health problems. Are you are worried about mold in your home? Keep reading for some tips from the professionals at RestoPros on how to identify different types of mold.
How to Identify Different Types of Mold by Color and Physical Symptoms:
The two easiest ways to identify which type of mold is in your home is by color and correlating symptoms. Here are the color qualities and related symptoms for common types of household mold:
Yellow-green/Brown Mold:
Scientific Name: Aspergillus
Coloring: This mold is a yellow-green color on the surface with brown coloring underneath.
Where it Grows: in air conditioning systems and on starchy foods like potatoes and bread.
Potential Symptoms: allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and inflammation of the lungs.
Pink and Black Mold:
Scientific Name: Ureobasidium.
Coloring: pink and black in color
Where it Grows: in damp areas like window frames, bathroom rugs, or caulk.
Potential Symptoms: eye irritation or respiratory problems.
Black and Green Mold:
Scientific Name: Cladosporium
Coloring: This mold is black and green in color and has a pepper-like appearance.
Where it Grows: on surfaces like toilets, fiberglass ducts, fabrics, and wood.
Potential Symptoms: watery eyes, a sore throat, or respiratory problems.
Dark Green, Brown, or Black Mold:
Scientific Name: Chaetomium.
Coloring: This type of mold is dark green, brown, or black in color and produces a musty odor.
Where it Grows: in buildings that have suffered extensive water damage.
Potential Symptoms: This type of mold rarely causes health problems in humans who are exposed to it.
Blue or Green Mold:
Scientific Name: Penicillium
Coloring: blue or green, this type of mold can easily transfer from room to room
Where it Grows: on wallpaper and textiles like carpets, mattresses, or curtains.
Potential Symptoms: This mold causes allergic reactions, sinus infections, and lung inflammation.
Black Mold:
Scientific Name: Stachybotrys chartarum
Coloring: It is dark in color and produces a musty odor.
Toxic/black mold is one of most common molds associated with health problems; it produces mycotoxins.
Where it Grows: in extremely damp locations (inside air conditioning systems, near leaky pipes, and on porous surfaces like drywall.)
Potential Symptoms: Exposure to black mold can cause allergic reactions, sinus infections, asthma symptoms, fatigue, headaches, and even depression.
Green or Bright Green & White:
Scientific Name: Trichoderma
Coloring: green or bright green color with white mixed in
Where it Grows: on wallpaper, carpets, and other porous surfaces.
Trichoderma produces mycotoxins causing serious health problems.
Although you now know what to look for, it is always a good idea to have your house professionally tested if you suspect you have a mold problem. If you are looking for a professional to perform mold testing, remediation, or removal in your home, contact the experts at RestoPros! Call 855-587-3786 to make an appointment today!
