Plumbing Catastrophe: Mold

We’ve all found the moldy remnants of a loaf of bread that was shoved in the back of the pantry and is well past its expiration date. While the fuzzy green patches may seem harmless, Arizona plumbers will warn you otherwise. Mold is a vital part of nature but you definitely don’t want it in your home or plumbing. Why? These tiny microbes could have catastrophic effects on your house and health.

What exactly is mold?

Good question! Mold is actually a type of fungus that grows in the presence of moisture. These little microorganisms break down and decompose organic material, which is an important part of the natural process. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold reproduces by way of releasing spores into the air that begin growing when they land on surfaces that are moist. Do you remember that dampened drywall from your leaking pipes—you know, the one your Phoenix plumber’s been telling you to take care of? It’s an ideal spot for mold spores to settle and begin growing.

Why is it bad?

In addition to having a not-so-pleasant musty smell, mold breaks down and destroys whatever it is living on. This means once it’s settled on your drywall, it starts breaking it down. Mold also produces allergens that can trigger asthma, allergic reactions and even flu-like symptoms, which can be irritating in and of itself. Certain types have even been shown to release mycotoxins that are hazardous to humans. Toxic black mold can grow in houses with leaky plumbing or backed up pipes, and it is extremely dangerous. If you suspect you have black mold in your home, immediately contact a health professional and our Arizona plumbers.

How do I get rid of it?

The key to keeping mold in check is controlling the amount of moisture in your home. To prevent the growth of mold, your indoor humidity should be kept between 30 and 50 percent. A dehumidifier will help take unwanted moisture out of the air in your basement or any particularly humid area. If you already have mold growing in your home, the EPA recommends safely cleaning it up and fixing the problem to prevent future growth. Keep your air conditioning drain lines flowing, and if you have backed up sewage or pipes contact one of our Phoenix plumbers right away to avoid further catastrophe.

Do you have a catastrophic mold emergency? For more Phoenix plumbing information contact us today! Any questions or concerns can be sent to info@chasroberts.com and don’t forget to check out our Facebook page.