Stern Mold

Mold is plentiful and common. One-in-three residential and commercial buildings offer an ideal environment for mold growth, making mold control measures such as dehumidifiers a popular addition. How much do dehumidifiers help in the mold prevention battle? The Manhattan mold removal experts offer this advice.

Low Relative Humidity Thwarts Mold Growth

Dehumidifiers work by pulling moisture from surrounding air. To prevent mold from growing and spreading, a RH humidity level at or below 50% is essential. However, a low RH won’t kill mold that has already grown.

What Happens to Existing Mold at Low RH?

Below 50% RH, mold remains dormant and does not spread. To get rid of it permanently, however, you must remove or destroy mold in addition to using a dehumidifier to keep RH low. 

Once mold has been treated, adding a dehumidifier after treatment will prevent future growth in susceptible environments.

Buyer Beware: Dehumidifiers Can Foster Mold Growth without Proper Care

Dehumidifiers are a great tool for preventing mold growth. However, they require regular cleaning, particularly portable models. The reservoir of portable models, which collects moisture pulled from the air, must be regularly emptied and cleaned per the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent mold and mildew growth in the tank. For this reason, some prefer whole house dehumidifying systems. Though higher in cost, this style of dehumidifier requires less maintenance, incorporating into your HVAC system and including a drainage system.

Don’t let mold problems grow on you. Contact the Manhattan mold removal services of Stern Mold today.