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!
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!
Mold can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. It’s not only unsightly, but it can also pose a serious health risk to you and your family. If you’ve ever discovered mold in your home, you might be tempted to paint over it and call it a day. However, this is never a good idea. In fact, it can make the problem much worse. In this article, we’ll explain why painting over mold is ineffective and what you should do instead.
Why Does Mold Grow?
Before diving into why painting over mold is a big no-no, let’s first understand how mold grows. Mold loves damp environments, making any consistently wet or moist area prone to mold growth. Common areas susceptible to mold growth include bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and areas that have experienced water damage. When mold spores land on a damp surface, they can quickly grow and spread, releasing more spores into the air.
Why is Painting Over Mold Ineffective?
Now, let’s return to the question: can you paint over mold? The answer is an emphatic no. Painting over mold will not solve the problem, as the mold will continue to grow and spread underneath the paint. This can make the problem even worse, as the mold can release more spores into the air, potentially causing health issues for you and your family.
Moreover, painting over mold can trap moisture in the affected area, creating a perfect environment for the mold to thrive and spread. This can create a dangerous cycle where the mold continues to grow and spread, potentially causing structural damage to your home and posing a health risk to anyone living there.
What Should You Do Instead?
If you have mold in your home, it’s essential to address the problem directly. This means hiring a professional to properly remove the mold and treat the affected area with a mold-killing solution. Depending on the extent of the mold growth, this may involve removing affected materials like drywall, carpet, or insulation.
It’s also essential to address the underlying cause of mold growth. This can include fixing leaks or drips, improving ventilation in damp areas, and using mold-resistant products in areas prone to moisture.
Can You Clean Up Mold Yourself?
While it might be tempting to clean up mold yourself to save money, it’s not recommended. Mold spores can become airborne during the cleaning process, potentially causing health issues for anyone in the area. Additionally, without proper training and equipment, it can be difficult to fully remove the mold and address the underlying causes of the growth.
If you do decide to clean up mold yourself, be sure to wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid breathing in the spores. However, in most cases, it’s best to leave mold remediation to the professionals.
What About Mold in Rental Properties?
If you’re a tenant and you discover mold in your rental property, it’s important to notify your landlord as soon as possible. They are responsible for addressing the issue and ensuring that the mold is properly removed. If they fail to take action, you may need to escalate the issue or even consider legal action.
Preventing Mold Growth
The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. This means taking steps to control moisture in your home and improve ventilation in damp areas. Some tips for preventing mold growth include:
Using a dehumidifier in areas that are prone to moisture
Fixing leaks and drips as soon as they occur
Cleaning up and drying any areas that become wet as soon as possible
Using mold-resistant products ensuring proper ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas that generate moisture
By taking these steps, you can reduce the likelihood of mold growth in your home and keep your family safe.
FAQs About Painting Over Mold
Q: Can you paint over mold with a mold-resistant paint?
A: No, even mold-resistant paint will not solve the problem. Painting over mold will only temporarily hide the issue and can worsen the problem in the long run.
Q: What are the health risks of mold exposure?
A: Mold exposure can cause a variety of health issues, including allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other serious health conditions. It’s important to address mold growth immediately to prevent these health risks.
Q: How can you tell if you have mold in your home?
A: Some signs of mold growth include musty odors, visible mold growth, and the presence of water damage or dampness. If you suspect you have mold in your home, it’s essential to have it inspected and addressed by a professional.
Q: Can you clean up mold with bleach?
A: While bleach can effectively kill some types of mold, it’s not always the best solution. Some types of mold require specialized treatment, and bleach can actually make the problem worse in some cases.
Conclusion
Painting over mold is never a good idea. It may seem like a quick fix, but it will only hide the problem temporarily and can make the problem much worse in the long run. If you suspect mold in your home, it’s important to address the problem directly by hiring a professional to remove it and treat the affected area with a mold-killing solution. It’s also important to address the underlying causes of mold growth to prevent it from returning.
By following the tips in this article and working with a professional when necessary, you can keep your home mold-free and safe for you and your family.
Keep your home safe and secure from the dangers of mold with help from Pure Maintenance of Texas! Learn more about how to proactively prevent and remedy any potential issues now. Contact us today!
Black mold is a type of fungus that can be dangerous to human and animal health. It typically grows in damp, humid areas like bathrooms and basements. In this article, we’ll explore what black mold is, how it forms, and what you can do to prevent it, drawing from expert sources.
What exactly is black mold?
Black mold is a term used to describe a group of molds that appear black or dark in color. While some strains of black mold produce toxins that can be harmful, not all black molds are toxic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What causes black mold?
Black mold thrives in damp, humid conditions. Poor ventilation, water damage, and high humidity levels can all create the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold can grow on organic materials like wood, paper, and fabric, especially when they are exposed to moisture for extended periods.
Exposure to black mold can cause a range of health symptoms. These can include respiratory problems, allergies, skin irritation, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and weakness. In severe cases, exposure to black mold can lead to neurological issues and even death.
What species of mold are commonly referred to as black mold?
While Stachybotrys chartarum is one of the most commonly associated species of mold with a dark or black appearance, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), not all strains of this mold produce toxins, and the health risks associated with exposure to these toxins are not well understood.
How can you prevent black mold?
Preventing mold growth is important for protecting your health and property. The EPA recommends taking the following steps to prevent mold growth:
Fixing leaks or water damage promptly
Adequately ventilating areas with high humidity
Using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your HVAC system
Removing any mold growth immediately
What should you do if you suspect black mold?
If you suspect black mold growth in your home or property, it’s important to act quickly. The CDC recommends hiring a professional mold inspector to test for mold and identify the type of mold present. If you discover mold growth, the EPA recommends removing it immediately using appropriate personal protective equipment and following proper cleaning procedures.
In conclusion, black mold can pose serious health risks, so it’s important to be vigilant in preventing and dealing with mold growth. By understanding what causes mold growth, how to prevent it, and what to do if you suspect black mold, you can protect your health and property from this dangerous fungus.
Get the knowledge and help you need to address black mold concerns. Pure Maintenance of Texas is here to provide expert advice and remediation services – contact us today!
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Peracetic Acid and Mold Remediation
