March 2014

When the weather gets hot and humid, it's important to pay attention to signs that you might be having a problem with excessive moisture. In rooms that are prone to moisture problems, such as bathrooms and basements, keep air circulating with the use of fans. Look for these signs to determine whether you need to dehumidify your home.

Mold growth where moisture condenses

Moldy spots on your ceiling, shower walls or high up in the corner are sure signs that moisture is a problem in your home. Although you can wash the areas with mold removal cleaners, if you don't take care of the source of the moisture, the mold will simply grow back. Opening windows when the weather isn't humid and running the exhaust fan in the bathroom will reduce the amount of moisture in the air.

Musty odors

The musty smell that comes from excessive moisture is hard to miss. If you notice a musty odor when you walk into a room, this is a sign of mildew growth. Musty odors get trapped in fabric, and you might find that you need to remove a carpet that has been ruined by too much moisture. It is almost impossible to get a musty smell out of furniture or carpets once it has settled in. Check for sources of moisture, and air out the room as best as you can.

Window or Door Condensation

Another sign that you need to find ways to remove humidity from your home is when windows or doors have condensation on them. This means that moisture is trapped within the room and has nowhere to go. Open windows and use window fans whenever possible to remove the moisture.

If simple methods such as using fans and opening windows don't work well enough to solve your moisture problem, you might need a home system that works with your heating and cooling system to reduce moisture in your home. Keep your home dry and free from the hazards of mold and mildew growth.