For many people, summer is a warm and carefree time of year. While Connecticut gets its fair share of picture-perfect days, the state is also known to have sweltering heat waves and unbearable humidity. You can seek relief in swimming pools and air conditioned buildings, but what about your home?
Houses are at risk for mold and mildew, HVAC problems and warped roofing or siding from high moisture levels. What should you know to protect your home this summer?
Mold and Mildew
These two fungi are commonly found in moist indoor areas. Mold is the main fungus and mildew is a specific type of mold. One major difference is that mildew stays on the surface, while mold penetrates below the surface.
When humidity is high, moisture increases and mildew can pop up in areas like carpeting, air ducts, walls, floors and attics. Meanwhile, mold can build up inside crawl spaces and other wooden structures. Untreated mold and mildew can ruin furniture, cause paint and wallpaper to peel or crack, and lead to serious health problems.
When humid weather leaves condensation on water pipes and toilet tanks, further mold and mildew problems can result. Over time, homeowners could be dealing with serious pipe damage and water back-ups.
Appliance Malfunctions
Excess moisture can also cause problems with electronics. When appliances are brought into a hot and humid room from a cool storage space, they become at risk to short circuit. Before plugging in and activating the electronics, allow time for them to adjust to a warmer climate.
Personal Belongings
High humidity levels can also damage your possessions. Books, artwork, photographs and other paper or canvas items can easily warp and crack if exposed to consistently elevated humidity. A dehumidifier or exhaust fan can help suck out humid air inside your interior rooms and keep these items intact.
By Carrier offers an industry-leading five-year warranty for our homeowners’ peace of mind. Explore our active communities today!
