Controlling Moisture Steps to a Healthy Home Series Educational programs of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

Problems Associated with Moisture Too much moisture can cause mold and mildew. Some people are sensitive to mold. Too little moisture can cause respiratory problems. Adding moisture must be monitored.

The Effects of Moisture in the Air

Relative Humidity Monitor the relative humidity in your home. If the humidity is high, dont keep a lot of house plants. Cut down on steam in the bathroom. Run a fan that is vented to the outside, or open a window. Run a fan vented to the outside when cooking. If you have a dryer, make sure it is vented to the outside – not to the crawl space, interior room, or attic. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to dry out damp areas.

Adding Moisture If the relative humidity is very low < 20%, you can face different issues in your home. Most households can increase the humidity level through daily activities (cooking, cleaning, showering, etc.). Some households may need to use a humidifier.

Tips for Controlling Humidity Follow the directions when using a humidifier. With an air conditioner, use the auto fan setting. Circulate air in problem areas. Monitor the relative humidity.

To Avoid Mold Growth Keep surfaces clean and dry. Wipe up spills and overflows right away. Store clothes and towels clean and dry. Dont leave water in drip pans, basements, and air conditioners. Wipe down shower walls with a squeegee or towel after bathing or showering.

To Avoid Mold Growth Prevent moisture from collecting on windows. – Use storm windows. – Seal the windows with a plastic film. – Keep the relative humidity 30-40% in winter time. Repair plumbing leaks. Discard carpeting, plaster board, insulation, or other materials that have been wet for more than 24 hours.

To Avoid Mold Growth Use downspouts and gutters. Slope the soil and landscape away from your houses foundation. Repair leaking roofs, walls, doors, and windows. Cover basement window wells if they leak.

Tracking Down Mold & Mildew Anywhere there is moisture or water, mold can grow. Check under sinks, on the floor at the base of the shower or tub, and on window seals. Check under and around appliances.

Tracking Down Mold & Mildew Mold/mildew also grow on wet appliances like air conditioners, dehumidifiers (appliances that remove moisture from the air), and humidifiers (appliances that add moisture to the air). Follow manufacturers instructions to change filters and clean appliances regularly.

Controlling Moisture Some sources of moisture are hard to detect. Get the help of a professional if you suspect excessive moisture and you can not locate the cause.

Clean Up To clean up areas of mold greater than 15 square feet, hire a professional to get rid of it. (See Extension publication ER027 – Selecting Mold Remediation Contractors at Clean up mold with a mixture of laundry detergent, dishwashing soap or TSP (trisodium phosphate), and water. After mold is cleaned off, use a mixture of chlorine bleach and water to disinfect.

Clean Up Personal protection is recommended if you clean up the mold yourself. Use a mask rated N-95, splash goggles, and rubber gloves. After cleaning mold, using a high efficiency (HEPA) vacuum or air cleaner may help to get rid of mold spores in the air.

Controlling Moisture Healthier Home Benefits people with asthma or allergies Benefits small children, people with long- term illness, and older people