Category : Information

How to Clean and Prevent Mold Growth from Electronic Equipment?

Mold may thrive in any environment, even electronic devices. Mold is a possibility as long as there is moisture. However, even if there is no moisture, a spore can remain dormant until moisture is present.

Mold reproduces by means of spores. Mold is transported through the air, allowing it to reach both the exterior and interior of a structure. Mold has the ability to contaminate everything, including electrical equipment, once it penetrates the interior of a building or residence.

When this occurs, the home or business owners may be unaware. This is due to the small spore particles blending in with the existing dust particles. The mold, on the other hand, quickly begins to colonize. Mold grows in colonies and becomes more noticeable over time, disrupting daily activities and products.

If you’re not sure if you have mold or not, it’s a good idea to get a mold inspection in Long Island to figure out what you’re up against.

The Problem

Most electronic equipment uses fans to keep its motors and processors cool. These fans’ intake ducting collects dust particles. Mold spores mix together with dust particles, so mold spores can also be entering the intake ducts.

Typically, mold is cleansed and removed using bleach or disinfectant spray. Each of these products destroys mold and prevents further mold growth in the area. Bleach and disinfectant cleaners, on the other hand, might cause more harm to electronic equipment.

Bleaches and disinfectant sprays should not be used on electronic equipment. Hence other methods must be found.

Electronic equipment is damaged by the chemicals in cleaning products and by dampness. If there is no risk of harm, electronic equipment should not be exposed to excessive wetness. To eliminate mold that has grown on electrical equipment, it must first be dried.

Cleaning the Electronic Equipment’s Exterior

For your safety, the first step in mold removal in Long Island from electrical equipment is to make sure you’re using gloves and a mask. After you’ve mastered that, you can move on to cleaning the outside or outer shell.

The bleach and disinfectant products described above can be used to clean these locations. Special caution is required when putting these solutions on the outside of electronic equipment.

Whether using bleach or disinfectant, only use a tiny amount of the substance. To avoid any damage, wipe clean the exterior and outer shell entirely, swiftly, and thoroughly after using these solutions.

It is critical to ensure that no moisture reaches the interior of the device. When the area has been cleaned, make sure it is completely wiped down with a soft cloth that will not scratch or scrape the equipment.

If you are looking for professional help, then New York Mold Specialist is the best choice for you. We are the experts in this domain and know how to go forward with the projects accordingly. If you have any mold issues, just let us know, and we will be there!

All You Should Know About Black Mold

Black molds are also known as Stachybotrys chartarum, which is undoubtedly a scary name to hear. Commonly known as black molds, it is one of the most notorious and hazardous molds developed in the walls, ceiling, and floors of a home. You can quickly identify black molds as they are dark green in color with either gooey or powdery texture. A mold expert needs to distinguish the difference between molds as other molds species resemble black mold’s appearance. Thus, the direct conclusive approach is to identify the Stachybotrys chartarum under a specialist’s magnifying lens.

How Does the Black Mold Affect Your Health?

Molds can be quite detrimental to your health. Overall, the consequences of living in an environment contaminated with black molds are not permanent. The majority of the symptoms will subside when the black mold is removed. Furthermore, there have been cases where black molds have proved to be fatal. Experts who work at mold removal company Long Island suggest that some people have suffered lasting health ailments, mainly due to molds’ exposure. Progressively a person’s health is impacted due to long-term exposure to black mold. That acts as one of the primary reasons why it is essential to remediate black mold as it adversely affects the health of the individual.

Some of the serious issues caused by black mold:

• Breathing problems like shortness of breath
• Lethargy
• Skin allegation
• membrane irritation
• Organ damage
• Queasiness
• Ruptured blood vessels and internal blooding

Additionally, the black model can affect the health of your pets. Dogs and cats may undergo skin irritation, respiratory tract illness, and open sores when exposed to mold for a longer duration. Hence, as soon as you discover the presence of bad molds, immediately without even wasting a minute, you should try and get rid of them by calling out for professional help.

Tips for Treating Black Mold Exposure

Yet, medical science has to develop a specific course of treatment for toxic mold exposure. One of the effective ways to stop mold exposure symptoms is by removing the mold with professional mold remediation techniques that are advanced and effective. These techniques go to the roots so that the problem does not arise ever again. Also, if there is someone who has suffered health issues due to molds, then he or she should be treated as soon as possible.

Where Can You Look for Mold Growth in Your House?

Ideally, mold tends to grow in warm and wet areas. The mold can also develop on the majority of the indoor surfaces. It needs a lot of dampness to thrive. You can easily find molds in the house where there is a leaky water pipeline in the spaces between walls, wet ceilings, or floorboards. Typically, the black mold grows in places where water is present for between a week to 12 days. Toxic black mold dominates the area by killing the other molds.

How Can We Inspect for Black Molds?

Experts who conduct mold testing Brooklyn NYC, suggest that if you suspect molds in your home or office, then it would be great to have your home evaluated by a professional mold remediation company. Homeowners who aren’t aware of a toxic mold’s dangers might not realize that they have a severe threat in their house. Often people ignore the signs of mold-related issues as the symptoms of mold are more or less similar to a cold or allergy attack. Sometimes, only experts can find out the sources of mold in your environment as it may not be apparent or visible through the naked eye.

It is essential to analyze the water issues when you get a mold assessment done. A professional black mold remediator will also know the diagnostic tools to analyze where the black mold is growing. Also, experts can measure the levels of moisture in the environment. These are some clues to find the concealed water line breaks or areas where water is getting in the place from the outside water source. Some of the signs of a developing mold pattern are strong, musty odors, ceilings bowed drywall, and water-stained walls.

How to Get Rid of Toxic Black Mold?

The remediation problem should begin as soon as possible once the mold problem is diagnosed. It might be necessary to remove and replace the affected structures. It would be best if you ripped out drywall, ceiling tiles, and floorboards. Employees who remove these damaged parts should always wear protective gear like goggles, gloves, and respirators. If you want to remove excess water, you can still use an industrial dehumidifier.

You can also call mold remediation pros at New York Mold Specialist if you fear that molds have grown in your house. Above all, you will get a free consultation so that you can quickly get rid of black molds. It is the professionals who can help you get rid of molds for a lifetime.

What is Mold?

Mold is a type of fungi that can be found on various surfaces and will continuously grow if not dealt with properly. Mold flourishes in warm, damp and humid conditions. Once mold has grown it spreads and reproduces in the form of spores. There are numerous types of mold with different appearances and colors and some may be more harmful than others.

The most common type of mold that most are familiar with is called Aspergillus which is usually ranges from a yellowish color to black or gray or sometimes blue-green. This type of mold is often found on your food or on leather surfaces. Cladosporium ​is a type of mold that is less familiar to most, and usually is a green or black color. This sort of mold can be found in air ducts, painted materials, and on plumbing fixtures.

The most harmful group of molds is called Stachybotrys Chartarum ​which is most often a black color and if one comes across this category of mold in their household action must be taken immediately. Mold can enter your household in multiple ways, through air conditioning systems, windows, vents, and doorways.

Mold will constantly thrive in places with a lot of moisture therefore, the most common places where mold has been found are by leaky roofs, pipes and windows. Once mold has entered it will grow progressively day by day on a variety of surfaces and materials like, wood, cardboards, paper products, wallpaper, carpet fabrics, drywall, insulation, upholstery, tiles, and many more.

Thermal Imaging

Thermal Imaging is also referred to as Infrared which is an innovated, non-invasive mechanization that gives inspectors the ability to uncover information about the mold in a client’s home or building that would not be visible to them when using standard methods of inspection. Thermal Imaging can recognize and record moisture invasion, unpredicted hotspots, and loss of energy.

• In Reference to Energy loss, an IR camera can identify:
• Air penetration in floors, ceilings, walls, doors, and windows. And heat loss.
• Heating systems malfunctioning or has been damaged.
• Leaks in air-condition compressor.
• Seals that have been broken in double-paned windows.
• Leads to energy loss due to missing frame members.

In reference to detect moisture intrusion, an IR camera can locate:

• Plumbing leaks.
• Roof leaks that are not visible and may lead to damage.
• Wet insulation that’s been misplaced or destroyed.

Moisture and water penetrations that could lead to structural harm and mold. based on the color gradients that thermal images provide, an inspector can visually see:

• The loss of energy through shelter tubes left by boring wood-destroying insects and potential infestation of pests.
• IR camera detects the presence of invaders such as mice, rats and other pests due to their heat signature.

Signs of Mold Infestation

Mold is not an issue that should be taken lightly therefore, if one has the slightest suspicion that they might have mold they should call for an inspection. Mold is sometimes visible, in that case you could see the mold and proceed accordingly. Unfortunately, other times mold is not visible to the naked eye but, there are still other ways to tell if you’ve been infested with mold. If one finds themselves smelling an unpleasant musty odor in their homes this likely means that you have been infested with mold, which means you are inhaling toxic compounds that have been produced by the mold and possibly mold spores as well. If the slightest sight of mold is found it must be dealt with immediately, if you fail to do so small patches will grow and become a bigger issue since your home already has all the factors that mold thrives in.

During the inspection process, our technicians will do a walk-through and visually assess the area for signs of observable mold growth. Visual assessment is vital and helpful in the confirmation of mold growth in an area. Additional testing, such as air and/or swab testing, is beneficial in order to fully verify the extent of mold infestation.

Odors:

Generally, the first sign of possible mold growth is a musty, wet smell which would usually not be expected inside of a home or property. Mold does not always present itself visually, and therefore identifying a moldy scent may sometimes prevent mold growth to spread into other areas.

Surface Damages:

Many molds, when beginning to grow rapidly, will affect the surface which it is growing on. The following are signs of mold growth surface damages which are observed and analyzed by our technicians during a mold inspection:

Distorted wood

Due to the water infiltration, the wood will develop a soggy look. This will cause the wood to bend and curl up in places which it normally would not. Mold can develop when water intrudes on a wooden surface.

Surface markings

Walls and other surfaces, when infested by mold growth, will have markings and discolorations, such as; brown, green, or black. Stains are a definite sign of mold growth in that specific location.

Water leaks

Of course, visible signs of water leaks are to be noted. Whether the mold has already started to grow or not, that surface needs to be checked for signs such as yellow water stains which would indicate moisture behind that surface.

Paint flaking

When paint on walls begins to have a flaking look, this usually means there is moisture beneath the surface which ultimately causes mold growth as well.

Bathroom Tile Black Spotting:

Because of constant moisture which circulates in a bathroom, it easily becomes a proliferation ground for mold growth. Tiles in the bathroom, due to their texture and spacing, allow moisture to thrive between the small cracks and underneath the surfaces. The combination of the moisture and dirt that exist between the tiles creates an environment where mold can increase rapidly.

Adhesive Malfunctions:

When adhesive materials on walls, such as wall paper or dry-wall tape, will malfunction, this is a definite sign of water intrusion. Dry wall adhesives are made to stick on dry walls. If there is moisture on the surface, the adhesive will not work correctly and will de-attach from its surface.

Mold:

Finally, a sure sign of mold growth caused by water damage is the mold itself. When mold is obvious and observable, technicians will evaluate the mold through non-invasive tests, to find the best way to remediate the problem.

Gutter Malfunctions:

Many times, gutters are the cause of mold problems in homes. Proper deliverance of water from rainfall to a safe distribution location is vital in keeping the moisture out of the home. When gutters are faulted, water collects at the base of the structure and can enter the home, causing immense damages to the foundations.

An inspection is the first step to a clean and safe environment. Call us today to book an appointment!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing I should do once I find mold in my home?

At New York Mold Specialist the first thing we urge you to do is contact us to bring in a professional for an inspection and examine the problem. Frequently one only sees a small fraction of the problem but, there may be a larger issue present. There’s a possibility that mold has grown in many other places that you did not notice like, inside walls, crawl spaces, ceiling tiles, attics, under carpets, and many other sites in your home.

Is it considered dangerous if I do not see any mold in site but smell it?

Yes, very often we do not see mold, but it is there and possess a musty smell which is unpleasant and quite dangerous. When you inhale air that has been contaminated with mold you are also inhaling mycotoxins and mold spores which are hazardous to your health and can cause multiple complications to your wellbeing.

What are some of the symptoms and health complications that follow when you are exposed to mold?

Mold has a large impact on your health and could cause a variety of ailments such as, congestion, runny nose, cough, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, headaches, and asthma like symptoms. If one is exposed to mold for a longer period it can lead to a bigger threat on your health like, chronic fatigue, depression, joint pain, pneumonia, and many skin rashes and many more complications to your health if mold is left untreated.

If my home is infested with mold, is it safe to stay there?

At New York Mold Specialist we recommend you not to remain in your household if it has been infested with mold, we suggest you contact us for professional help. Should I use a mold test kit to test the mold in my home? Home test kits are not something we recommend due to them being undependable and unpredictable. It is always best to seek professional help to be safe and have reliable results, unlike most home test kits.

Is it possible and safe for me to remove mold on my own?

It is always ideal to seek professional help but in some instances your homeowner’s insurances may cover the costs, but you will need verify with your insurance carrier. According to the Environmental Protection Agency one should seek professional aid if: ● The area that is infested with mold is over 10 square feet. ● Presume that mold is in your HVAC system. ● Mold or water damage is a result of contamination of water, that may be derived from a sewage.

How would I remove mold?

Many believe that mold is not that difficult to remove however, it is a strenuous job. You need to start off by isolating the mold and set up negative pressure to prevent mold spores from spreading into other sections of your home. You must wear protection for your safety and lastly substitute permeable objects that have mold. What are ways to prevent mold​? The most effective way to prevent mold is controlling the moisture in your home. Mold thrives in damp areas so constantly be on the lookout for leaks under your sink, and leaks on your roof. If you suspect your basement feels humid place a dehumidifier to get rid of excess moisture. When showering make sure to leave a fan on or open a crack of a window or door to eliminate the moisture that may lead to mold.

When would be a good time to get a mold inspection?

• After you have experienced any type of flooding or water issue.
• If you smell a musty unpleasant odor.
• If you are experiencing a leak that has been present for over 24 hours.
• If you notice stains on your furniture or building materials.
• You believe you may have mold even if it is not visible to you.
• If the residents of your home are suffering from a medical condition and the reason is unknown.

Signs of Water Issues

If one begins to notice that their walls, floors or ceilings start to stain or become discolored, this indicates that there is a water problem present and mold may be thriving behind or within the textiles. Another indicator could be a wall surface looks as though it is bubbling, peeling, or cracking and creates damage to your paint or wallpaper and if the wall surface happen to feel damp. If you experience any of these complications, it is probable that you are faced with a moisture problem that needs to be handled or else mold will inevitably sprout.