Check These Appliances For Mold Growth

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth occurs naturally and is all over the place, especially in locations that have high moisture. Many people are unaware of the fact that mold might even be present in their appliances, so inspecting these machines is a great way to find hidden mold so that can be removed before it becomes problematic.

Washing Machines

If you notice a musty odor when opening your washing machine, this could be a sign that mold is present. Washing machines are manufactured to be water tight, which makes them an ideal environment for mold. Clean your washing machine’s gasket with water and soap, and then run it on a cycle that is empty using baking soda, hot water or bleach. If the musty smell persists, this means the mold has probably entered the filter, drum or drain, which means you’ll need professional assistance.

Air Conditioning Vents

The vent of your air conditioner is another place where mold can develop. It can usually be identified visually by peeking through the vents or smelling them to see if an unpleasant odor is present. If it is, you’ll want to consult with an A/C expert.

Humidifier

A lot of the new humidifiers are advertised to be antimicrobial, but in reality they require regular cleaning as well. Once a day, prior to refilling them, you will want to empty, then rinse and dry, and once per week you can remove scale using vinegar and then apply disinfectant according to the instructions of the manufacturer.

Refrigerator 

If you see or smell mold inside your fridge, it can be easily addressed with some fungicide, baking soda and warm water. Remove all of the contents first, and then carefully wipe the walls and insides, which include the hard to reach crevices. Don’t forget to take out the shelves and bins so you can clean under them as well, but be careful with glass, as you don’t want to scratch it. Be sure to check the freezer to.

Do Thermostats Help With Mold?

No, because mold enjoys temperatures similar to those which are preferable to humans. Additionally, it can also thrive in frigid environments. Therefore, attempting to control mold with low temperatures will not be effective. 

Getting Rid of Wall Mold

Mold needs moisture to thrive, so the best way to stop it from appearing on walls is to have it professionally cleaned, and then purchase a humidity and temperature sensor so that you can monitor and ensure that your home is always lower than 70 to 75 percent RH. Otherwise, you will need to invest in better dehumidification or ventilation.

Is It Possible For Black Mold To Appear On Plastic?

Black mold, which is also called Stachybotrys chartarum, is not able to thrive on plastic, concrete, ceramic or vinyl surfaces. It prefers materials which are rich in fiber with reduced nitrogen content, like wood, wallboard or paper.