If you live in the south then you know that heat and humidity don’t just stick around for summer. From the first spring bloom until Halloween you can pretty much count on warm, stuffy air when you step outside. Sometimes, it feels that way in our home, too. This humid moist air can mean problems for your crawl space, attic, and your heating and air unit. The good news – there are actions that you can take now to prevent serious damage before it’s too late.
Open It Up. Your kitchen range needs exhaust and your bathroom shower requires a fan to pull out the steam. Ventilation under your home and in your attic is important, too. While it’s still warm outside, which in North Carolina lasts late into the year, it’s a good idea to open up those vents in your crawl space. Why? Have you ever stepped into a car with the windows closed on a hot humid day? If so, then you know the air is steamy, muggy, and hard to breathe. It can even fog up your windows. The vents under your home act like a rolled down window in your car on a hot summer day, allowing air to flow through freely. Opening these vents allows air to circulate better below your flooring. Many homes have air ducts running through their crawl space. Ventilation is important in keeping these dry from condensation, preventing unhealthy mold and mildew.
Dry It Out. During warm months, hot and humid air can quickly cause problems under your home and in your attic. Mold thrives in warm air and growth normally begins when humidity levels reach around 60%. Adding a whole house dehumidifier will not only make your home feel better and keep you breathing easier, but it can help to prevent unwanted mold, mildew, peeling paint, warped flooring and that musty odor.
At Thornton’s we offer two different types of dehumidifiers, Honeywell and Santa FE. Both are energy efficient units that pull the moist, wet air through the filter, removing the moisture while letting it drain out through a tube, then releasing healthy, dry air back into your home. “According to experts, controlling humidity inside the home is essential for comfort, reduced health risks and property protection.” -Santa Fe Dehumidifers
Seal It Closed. To ensure there is no moisture in your crawl space, there are several ways YOU can help. First, make sure there are no leaks in any pipes, plumbing fixtures, or in your ducts. A duct work inspection and maintenance agreement can prevent costly repairs and will check for any unexpected leaks. Properly insulating duct work in your crawl space and attic can also save you energy, money, and prevent condensation build up. Proper ventilation is also essential. When you turn on the dryer with that next big load of laundry, make sure the moist air is being filtered to the outside of your home, not into the crawlspace. You’ll also want to ensure the flooring of your crawlspace is insulated with plastic sheeting to keep natural moisture from the ground from making its way into the walls of your home.
Regardless of the cause, one thing remains the same. Moisture in your crawlspace or attic can cause unwelcome problems to your entire home. The professional technicians at Thornton’s are here to keep your home comfortable on the inside and dry in those sneaky hidden areas.
Don’t sweat it – call us today to schedule your maintenance or inspection and rest easy knowing your home is safe and dry!