Peracetic acid is also a powerful tool in mold remediation. Mold can quickly spread throughout a building if there is a water leak or high humidity. Allergies, respiratory issues, and even neurological problems have all been linked to mold exposure.
Traditional ways to get rid of mold include removing it by demolition, tearing out contaminated materials, and rebuilding afterward. If mold is in the HVAC system, oftentimes it is recommended to replace the entire system, costing thousands of dollars.
Pure Maintenance uses a proprietary solution called InstaPURE, which contains 5% peracetic acid, as part of their mold remediation process. InstaPURE is an effective, safe, and environmentally friendly way to get rid of mold spores and keep them from coming back.
The process starts by creating a dry fog that fills the entire space and reaches every surface, including hidden areas that are often missed during traditional remediation methods. The dry fog contains tiny particles of InstaPURE that penetrate every crevice and surface, eliminating mold spores on contact.
Once the fog has settled, the space is left to air out for a short period, and then a second fog is applied to the space to ensure complete coverage. This process is repeated until all mold spores are eliminated without harming the environment or putting people’s health at risk.
What is Peracetic Acid
The food industry frequently uses peracetic acid, also known as peroxyacetic acid, a potent oxidizer, to clean and disinfect. It is also used as a disinfectant and sterilant in the healthcare and wastewater treatment industries.
Peracetic acid’s ability to rapidly degrade into harmless byproducts like water and oxygen sets it apart from other disinfectants and makes it a more eco-friendly choice.
Peracetic Acid in Other Industries
In addition to its effectiveness in mold remediation, peracetic acid is also used in other industries, such as the agricultural and brewing industries. This means proper precautions must be taken whenever peracetic acid is used.
In conclusion, peracetic acid is a strong and versatile oxidizer used in many industries to clean and sterilize things. The fact that Pure Maintenance uses peracetic acid to get rid of mold is a game-changer. It gives a safe and effective solution to a common and potentially dangerous problem. As with any chemical, it’s important to use peracetic acid carefully and follow all safety rules to avoid harming your health.
Ready to learn more about peracetic acid and the state-of-the-art mold remediation process offered by Pure Maintenance of Texas? Contact us today for further information!
You rely on your air conditioning system during the hot summer to keep your home comfortable. However, a clogged AC drain line can lead to various problems, including water damage, mold growth, and reduced AC performance. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your AC drain lines clear and functioning properly.
What is an AC drain line?
Let’s quickly go over what it is and what it does before talking about how to keep your AC drain line clear. The AC drain line is a small pipe that runs from your air conditioner’s evaporator coil to the outside of your home. Its purpose is to remove condensation that forms on the coil during the cooling process. Without a functioning drain line, this moisture would build up and eventually cause water damage or other problems.
Why do AC drain lines get clogged?
AC drain lines can become clogged for a variety of reasons, including:
Dirt and debris buildup: Over time, dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate in the drain line, causing clogs.
Algae and mold growth: The dark, damp environment inside the drain line can be a breeding ground for algae and mold, which can quickly clog the line.
Poor installation: If the drain line is not installed properly, it may be more prone to clogging.
How to Keep Your AC Drain Line Clear
Now that we know why AC drain lines get clogged, let’s discuss some steps you can take to prevent clogs and keep your drain line clear.
Change Your Air Filter Regularly
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent AC drain line clogs is to change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can reduce airflow and increase moisture buildup, contributing to drain line clogs. Aim to change your air filter every 1–3 months, depending on your usage and type of filter.
Clean the AC Drain Lines
Cleaning the AC drain line is another important step in preventing clogs. To do this, locate the drain line outside your home (it will be a PVC pipe near your outdoor unit) and gently flush it out with water. You can use a garden hose or a special attachment designed for this purpose. Be careful not to use too much pressure, which could damage the line. If you notice any visible clogs, you may need to use a pipe cleaner or call in a professional to clear the line.
Use Algaecide Tablets
As we mentioned earlier, algae and mold growth can quickly clog an AC drain line. To prevent this, you can use algaecide tablets, which are small tablets that dissolve slowly and release chemicals that prevent algae and mold growth. Simply drop one or two tablets into the drain pan monthly during the cooling season.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my AC drain line is clogged?
A: Some signs of a clogged AC drain line include water leaking from your indoor unit, musty odors, and reduced AC performance. If you see any of these signs, you should check your drain line and clean it if necessary.
Q:Can I use vinegar or bleach to clean my AC drain line?
A: While vinegar or bleach can effectively kill mold and algae, they can also harm your AC drain line if used improperly. Vinegar and bleach are both acidic and using too much of either substance or leaving it in the drain line for too long can damage the PVC material of the line for use in AC drain lines. Instead, we suggest using an algaecide product that is made to be used in air conditioner drain lines.
Q: Do I need a professional to clean my AC drain line?
A: In most cases, you can clean your AC drain line yourself using the steps we outlined above. However, if you’re uncomfortable doing so or notice any major clogs or other issues, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair your system.
Q: How often should I clean my AC drain line?
A: We recommend cleaning your AC drain line at least once per year, ideally before the start of the cooling season. However, if you live in a particularly humid or dusty area, you may need to clean it more often.
Q: Can a clogged AC drain line cause other problems besides water damage?
A: Yes, a clogged AC drain line can lead to reduced AC performance, as well as increased energy bills and mold growth. It can also create an environment for insects and other pests to thrive.
In conclusion, keeping your AC drain line clear is important to maintaining your air conditioning system and preventing water damage and other issues. By following these simple steps and being mindful of signs of a clogged drain line, you can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.
After traditional remediation, why are so many homes still making family members sick? When a flood or severe leak occurred, the insurance company and a major mold remediation company came to the rescue. So why are we still sick? To understand this, remember that not everyone will get sick from mold.27 percent of the population has a genetic trait that makes them more likely to get sick from mold. With that in mind, let’s return to when the house was first built.
Day One of a Brand New Home
The mold spore count is almost identical to outdoor mold spores. Of course, you have them because they are everywhere. But the key here is that the home is not producing mold or mycotoxins; it simply mimics outdoor air. Now let’s jump ahead five years, and you develop a small leak under the sink. No big deal, a little bleach will clean that up. (not recommended by Pure Maintenance). Truthfully, it was never properly cleaned up, and you now have a little mold factory-producing mold spores under the sink. Your indoor level is now 10 percent higher than outside. This tiny little issue is now producing mold and mycotoxins.
Mold Load in the Home Increases
Jump ahead another year or so, and you find a wonderful used oak roll-top desk at a garage sale. Little did you know that the desk came from a mold-infested home and brought literally millions upon millions of mold spores into your home. The family sold the desk because they had odd mold symptoms. Jump ahead another four years, and the basement leaks through the foundation. It is noticed, but not until there is significant mold growth. Your neighbor said to put some fans on it and dry it out. The basement has a musty smell, but you’re told that’s common. Now you have another mold and spore source in the basement.
Once you hit this level, the mold really gets a stronghold in your home. Now, every time you take a shower, the mold grows and sends out spores. Every time you boil water, the mold grows and releases spores.Remember, mold only needs 60 percent humidity to thrive. You still can’t see it, but it’s there, and it’s growing at an exponential rate. Now there are a lot of mold-producing factories, including the bathroom, the front loading washer, the sinks, and the drains. When you come home from vacation, the house smells bad. That’s probably normal, you assume.
Now Jump Ahead a Few More Years
You realize that you have a significant leak in the water heater. The so-called professionals are called in. They arrive, and the first thing they do is confine the area with plastic. I have often wondered, “How does the mold get contained while workers walk in and out of the plastic?” Secondly, did the mold wait for the remediation company to show up before delivering mold spores throughout the home? Luckily, they got that plastic up just in time to stop them. Of course not. The spores have been released from the first few hours of the flood. Experts say 24–36 hours, but that is assuming no mold is there, to begin with.
Traditional Mold Containment Doesn’t Work
Here is a little-known secret. The mold companies use the containment method more for the after-testing than for the safety of the occupants. If they can confine an area with plastic and then run “air scrubbers” within the confined area at the end of the project, you can run a test (with the confinement still in place) and declare the home safe. Sometimes they have to run these scrubbers for days to get a good test result. Wait a minute, are they not testing the whole home? No, just the area where the containment existed. News Flash #1 THE SPORES ARE THROUGHOUT THE HOME!!! As soon as the containment comes down, that area will be infected again.
Mold is Now Everywhere in the Home
Going back to the mold spore count within the home, you are now comfortably 100 to 1000 times higher than the outdoor level at a very minimum. Now it is manifesting itself in the bathrooms, on the window sills, and in your drains. Remember that we said it was “manifesting” itself in those places. It’s everywhere, but this is where it is visible because you have water for it to stick to, begin to feed on, and spore out. Your laundry stinks if left in the washer for a day, and your food gets moldy quicker than ever before. Now you’re concerned and researching black mold symptoms!
Although you just had a traditional remediation company do their professional, ‘insurance company’ sanctioned, certified protocol, someone is still sick and complaining aboutmold exposure symptoms. Let’s throw in another variable to confuse the public. News Flash #2!!Air quality tests are extremely inaccurate. Everyone knows this. California won’t even accept them in litigation. California now says you have mold if you see mold or smell mold. Period.
An Air Quality Test is a Tool
To think that you can determine the moldiness of a home by pulling in 75 liters of air and hoping that (1) mold sticks, (2) mold is sporing out all the time, and (3) the airflow of the home is bringing the mold to the area being tested. Stachybotrys is a heavy spore that doesn’t remain aloft for long. Chaetomium spores inside a perithecium, which keeps them from becoming aloft easily, and every lab reads the tests a little differently. These are two of the most toxic molds in the world, and it’s hard to pick them up in a test. We tell people that an air test is a tool, and that’s all it is. It is by no means a definitive measurement of the home’s health.
Pure Maintenance Addresses the Health of the Entire Home
Even professionally remediated homes have potential issues with mold, mycotoxins, and bacteria/endotoxins. Additionally, it is difficult to measure the health of a home, and it’s impossible to declare the home safe unless the entire home has been treated. Pure Maintenance is one of the few companies in the country that understands that the entire home is sick, not just where the flood occurred, or the mold is manifesting itself. Mold and mold spores are everywhere. Pure Maintenance addresses the health of the entire home. People who have experienced mold illness symptoms for years are getting well after their home has received thePure Maintenance 2-step dry fog treatment.
Take control of your home environment and protect it from mold with the experienced team at Pure Maintenance of Texas. From whole-home remediation to prevention tips, contact us today for more information!
Who pays for mold removal? The short answer is, “It depends.” Mold, unfortunately, is a common problem in homes and buildings, and it can cause serious health issues if left untreated. If you see mold on your property, you may be wondering who is responsible for paying for its removal. In this guide, we’ll explore the different scenarios where mold removal may be necessary and who is responsible for the costs.
When Is mold removal necessary?
Mold can grow in any area of your property with moisture, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or basement. It can also grow in areas where there has been water damage, such as after a flood or a leak. Some common signs of mold include:
A musty odor
Visible mold growth
Water stains on walls or ceilings
Peeling paint or wallpaper
Respiratory problems
Other unexplained health issues
If you suspect mold on your property, getting it tested and removed as soon as possible is essential to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.
Who is responsible for mold removal?
The responsibility for paying for mold removal depends on the cause of the mold growth and who is responsible for maintaining the property. Here are some common scenarios:
Landlords and Tenants
If you’re a tenant and discover mold in your rental property, you should notify your landlord or property manager immediately. It’s their responsibility to ensure that the property is safe and habitable. They should arrange for a mold inspection and, if necessary, mold removal. The cost of mold removal will usually be the responsibility of the landlord.
If you’re a landlord, you should stop mold growth by fixing leaks and ensuring your rental properties have enough ventilation. If you fail to do so, and your tenant suffers health issues due to mold growth, you may be liable for the costs of mold removal and any damages resulting from the mold exposure.
Homeowners and Insurance Companies
If you own your home and discover mold, you may be responsible for paying for the mold removal yourself. However, if the mold growth results from a covered event, such as a burst pipe or a roof leak, your homeowner’s insurance may cover the mold removal cost.
It’s important to review your insurance policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may have exclusions for mold damage or limit the coverage for mold removal.
Contractors and Builders
If you’ve recently had construction work done on your property, and you discover mold as a result of the work, you may be able to hold the contractor or builder responsible for the cost of the mold removal. This will depend on the terms of your contract and whether the contractor or builder is responsible for any resulting mold growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does insurance cover mold removal?
A: It depends on your insurance policy. Some homeowners’ insurance policies will cover mold removal if it results from a covered event, such as a burst pipe. However, many policies have exclusions for mold damage or limit the amount of coverage for mold removal. Reviewing your policy carefully and speaking to your insurance company if you have any questions is important.
Q: How much does mold removal cost?
A: The mold removal cost will depend on the extent of the mold growth and the method used to remove it. According to research, the average cost of mold removal is $2,362, but it can range from $500 to $6,000 or more. At Pure Maintenance of Texas, we’re typically 30 – 50% less expensive than traditional mold remediation.
Q: Can I remove the mold myself?
A: It’s possible to remove small amounts of mold using household cleaners and bleach. However, if the mold growth is extensive, it’s best to hire a professional mold removal company.
Q: How do I choose a professional mold removal company?
Q: How can I prevent mold growth in my home or property?
A: To prevent mold growth, it’s important to control moisture levels in your property. This can be done by fixing leaks, maintaining proper ventilation, and using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity. It’s also essential to clean up any water damage promptly and dry out the affected area within 24–48 hours to prevent mold growth.
In conclusion, who is responsible for the cost of mold remediation will depend on the source of the problem and who normally maintains the property. If you are a tenant and find mold in your rental property, you should notify your landlord or property manager immediately.
If mold growth results from a covered loss, your homeowner’s insurance may pay to have it removed. You might be able to recover the cost of mold remediation from the contractor or builder if the work they did on your property was recently completed. To prevent mold growth, it’s important to control moisture levels in your property and address any water damage promptly.
If you’re looking for experienced mold prevention and removal experts, Pure Maintenance of Texas is the perfect solution. Get in touch with us todayto discover more about our cost-effective dry fog mold removal service and how we can help keep your property safe from damaging mold growth!
Is mold on shoes dangerous? In this article, we’ll talk about what makes shoes in closets grow mold and how to stop and eliminate it.
How Your Shoes Get Moldy
Mold thrives in moist environments, making shoes in a damp, dark closet an ideal breeding ground. When shoes become wet or damp, mold spores can settle on them, causing mold to grow. Leather shoes are particularly vulnerable to mold growth since leather can absorb moisture easily.
Can Moldy Shoes Be Saved?
If caught early, mold on shoes can sometimes be cleaned off using a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water. You should use a soft-bristled brush to clean the affected area and then air dry the shoes. However, if the mold has penetrated deeply into the shoes, they may need to be discarded. It’s crucial to note that mold can cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions. If you’re handling moldy shoes, wear protective gear and dispose of them carefully to avoid spreading mold spores.
Preventing Mold on Shoes
Maintaining dry conditions is essential to preventing mold growth on shoes. Here are some tips:
Always wear clean, dry socks with your shoes. This helps absorb moisture and keeps your feet dry.
Let shoes dry completely before storing them in the closet. Stuffing them with newspaper can help absorb moisture and speed up the drying process.
Avoid storing shoes in damp, humid environments. Store them in a well-ventilated closet or shoe rack if possible.
Reduce moisture levels in your closet or basement by using a dehumidifier.
Consider using a shoe dryer, which uses heat to dry shoes quickly and thoroughly.
Cleaning Mold from Your Closet
Mold on shoes in the closet often indicates the presence of mold elsewhere in the closet. Here’s how to clean it up:
Take everything out of the closet, including clothes, shoes, and other items.
Clean all surfaces with a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water to kill any mold spores.
Let the closet air dry completely before returning items to it.
Put a dehumidifier in the closet to reduce the amount of moisture and stop mold from growing in the future.
FAQs
Q: Is mold on shoes dangerous?
A: Mold can cause health problems, including respiratory issues and allergic reactions. If you have moldy shoes, throw them away carefully and wear protective gear to stop the mold spores from spreading.
Q: How can I prevent mold on leather shoes?
A: Shoes made of leather are especially likely to grow mold because they soak up water easily. To prevent mold on leather shoes, wear clean, dry socks with them, avoid storing them in damp, humid environments, and use a leather conditioner to help repel moisture.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean moldy shoes?
A: While bleach can effectively kill mold, it can also damage certain materials, such as leather and suede. Instead of bleach, it’s best to clean your shoes with a mix of white vinegar and water.
Q: How often should I clean my closet to prevent mold?
A: Clean your closet at least once a year to prevent mold growth. If you live in a humid or wet area or see mold growing on your shoes or clothes, you may need to clean them more often.
Q: Can I store my shoes in plastic containers to prevent mold?
A: Plastic containers can keep moisture out, but they can also trap moisture inside, which can help mold grow. The best place to store your shoes is in a dry, well-ventilated closet or shoe rack; a dehumidifier can help.
Q: Can I dry my shoes with a hairdryer?
A: While a hairdryer can effectively dry shoes quickly, it can also damage certain materials, such as leather and suede. The ideal scenario is for your shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Q: How can I tell if my shoes have mold?
A: Mold can appear as fuzzy or slimy spots on shoes and cause a musty odor. If you suspect your shoes have mold, inspect them closely and take action to clean them and prevent future growth.
In conclusion, a common problem with shoes in closets is mold. Keeping shoes dry and in a well-ventilated area can help prevent this. If you notice mold on your shoes, take action to clean them and prevent further growth. Following the tips in this article, you can keep your shoes and closet mold-free and ensure a healthy living environment.
Want to keep your shoes looking great, even in humid conditions? Pure Maintenance of Texas can provide valuable information on mold prevention and removal – contact us today!
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Peracetic Acid and Mold Remediation
