Mold and humidity go hand in hand. Unfortunately, this fungus is a naturally occurring, almost universal problem affecting homes, businesses, and anywhere with excess moisture. When undisturbed, its presence not only damages the structure and aesthetics of buildings, but also poses legitimate health risks to people and animals. If you’d like to do a deep dive into humidity within the home, please see this informative article.
In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of monitoring temperature and relative humidity, the relationship between these environmental factors and mold, and how taking preventive action can save time and money while safeguarding wellness.
Relative humidity and mold growth
Mold thrives in environments with excess moisture, making humidity a key factor in controlling growth. High humidity levels create damp environments conducive to mold spore blooms. On the other hand, low humidity inhibits mold growth.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor humidity levels should be maintained between 30% and 50% to prevent mold colonization.1 A study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that high indoor humidity levels were associated with increased mold growth and subsequent health issues.2
Temperature and mold formation
Temperature plays a significant role in mold development. Monitoring temperature helps identify areas of a building that may be susceptible to mold growth due to warm spots or inadequate ventilation.
Research published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene found that temperature variations and inadequate temperature control contribute to increased moisture levels and mold growth.3 Temperature fluctuations can lead to condensation, further increasing moisture levels and promoting mold growth.
The benefits of proactive monitoring
By implementing a proactive monitoring system for humidity and temperature, we can stay one step ahead of mold growth. Continuous monitoring allows observers to identify and address environmental conditions that can lead to mold formation, preventing its spread and minimizing the need for costly remediation.
Some key benefits of proactive monitoring include:
Early detection: Monitoring conditions can alert people to any significant fluctuations or abnormal readings in humidity and temperature. This gives them a chance to take action before mold growth gets out of control.
Preventing structural damage: Mold can cause significant damage to building materials such as walls, floors, and ceilings. By keeping an eye on environmental factors, we can prevent excess moisture that weakens structures and leads to costly repairs.
Protection of occupant health: Mold can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Therefore, proactive monitoring helps create a healthier indoor environment by reducing the risk of mold-related health complications.
Energy efficiency: Monitoring systems can help identify areas where temperature regulation is inadequate, leading to energy wastage. By optimizing temperature control, we can enhance electrical efficiency and reduce utility costs.
According to a report by the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA), proactive monitoring and control of humidity and temperature can reduce the risk of mold growth by up to 80%.4
Implementing monitoring solutions
To effectively monitor humidity and temperature, several options are available. These include:
Hygrometers: These devices measure humidity levels in the air. Depending on the needs of users, there are several types: digital hygrometers, psychrometers, data loggers, etc. Some can provide real-time readings, while others offer continuous monitoring and data storage.
Thermostats: Smart thermostats equipped with temperature sensors allow for remote monitoring and control of indoor temperature levels. These provide insights into temperature patterns and fluctuations.
Integrated building automation systems: These comprehensive (and expensive) systems combine multiple sensors to identify, measure, and regulate various environmental factors, including relative humidity and temperature.
We recommend these two standout devices for indoor monitoring:
- Aranet2 HOME: A combination hygrometer (humidity) and thermometer, this portable and wireless smart device simplifies the task of identifying problematic areas and environmental conditions. Alarms can be customized to notify users when situations deteriorate.
- Aranet4 HOME: This indoor air quality monitor tracks carbon dioxide (CO2), humidity, temperature, and atmospheric pressure. A streetlight (green, yellow, red) lighting display correlates to the safety of a space’s air and alerts can be specified for specific conditions.
Both devices are connectable to the Aranet Home mobile application for 90 days of data tracking, analysis, and export. Empowered with consistent flows of laboratory-grade precision information, users can easily identify areas that need improvement.
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Tips for preventing mold growth
Prevent humidity build ups: Certain areas like kitchens, bathrooms, cellars, and sheds are much more likely to experience leaks, drips, and other gatherings of water. Mold thrives in damp environments, so be sure to clean up any moisture, fix damaged pipes, and solve any problems that create wetness.
Maintain consistent temperature: When temperatures rise and fall, the resulting condensation can cause moisture gatherings: ideal environments for mold growth.
Freshen the air: Opening windows, cracking doors, and using vents and fans is a great way to help dry out the musty, dusty, and poorly ventilated areas that mildew thrives in.
Keep things clean: Whether it’s fabrics, furniture, or the walls themselves, dirty and wet spots are much more likely to breed fungus. Regular cleaning does wonders for preventing spore growth.
Monitoring humidity and temperature levels is a simple but significant preventive measure against mold growth. By maintaining improved environmental conditions, you can protect structures and preserve health while saving time and resources.
Sources:
- Mold course: Chapter 2 – Why and where mold grows. https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-course-chapter-2-why-and-where-mold-grows
- Mold prevention guide for commercial buildings. https://www.iaqa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/2019-Mold-Prevention-Guide-for-Commercial-Buildings.pdf
- Respiratory and allergic health effects of dampness, mold, and dampness-related agents: A review of the epidemiologic evidence. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3114807/
- WHO guidelines for indoor air quality: Dampness and mold. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/