WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A HIGH QUALITY RESIDENTIAL DEHUMIDIFIER:

If you are worried about the Relative Humidity Level(s) in your house, it may be wise to invest in a good quality residential dehumidifier.  Here's a list of important aspects of a good residential dehumidifier.  High levels of humidity can cause or exacerbate mold growth in your home.  If you think mold is already a concern in your house, it is suggested that you have a certified Environmental Assessment company like The Healthy Abode come and inspect and sample your house for mold growth.  Mold growth can cause both serious health and structural problems for your home, yourself and your family.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A HIGH QUALITY RESIDENTIAL DEHUMIDIFIER:

Average Cost $200-$300

-Auto shut off when the water storage tray is full, or better still, a continuous drainage system that requires no maintenance at all. These usually require a floor level drain in the room that they will be used, but if that option is available to you it will save a lot of time and effort in the long run.

-Built in humidistat (humidity meter / hygrometer) that can automatically control the humidity of the room. This is a vital feature to prevent the air from becoming too dry.

-For larger units, wheels make them much easier to maneuver.

-A frost sensor that will switch off the unit if it gets too cold.

-An on/off switch. This may sound silly, but without one you will need to be able to reach the main socket, and that is not always convenient.

-Extras such as an air filter can be useful to some people, particularly allergy sufferers.

-Variable fan speeds. (most dehumidifiers have them).

-Low noise levels. Everybody likes a bit of piece and quiet.

Please contact us if you have any questions about dehumidifiers and/or mold growth related matters.  We're happy to help!

Common Areas Asbestos is located in a Residential House or Dwelling

If you are going to renovate or notice that certain materials are being disturbed or falling apart it is important to know whether or not these materials may contain asbestos.  Here is a list of the most common areas that asbestos may be present in a residential house or dwelling.  Please remember there does exist other areas that asbestos may be present, however, these are the most common.  If you are concerned that you may have asbestos containing materials in your home the best bet is to have them tested by a certified Environmental Assessment Company like The Healthy Abode. 

The most common areas where asbestos may be found in a residential home are the following:

ATTIC:

-attic insulation, especially if it is vermiculite

FLOORING:

-any vinyl tiles

-asphalt based floor tiles

-any floor tiles, backing materials used to install tiles (i.e. black mastic adhesive) can contain asbestos

-flooring felt

-asbestos carpet underlayment

CEILINGS:

-acoustical ceiling tiles

-acoustic ceilings/popcorn ceilings

-plaster ceilings

-any sprayed-on or troweled-on surfacing materials

-asbestos ceiling fireproofing panels

INSULATION/PIPING:

-piping insulation

-insulation around boilers

-insulation around ducts

-insulation around hot water tanks

-attic, ceiling and wall insulation (1930-1950)

-pipeline wrap

-paper made of asbestos

BUILDING MATERIALS:

-plaster and lath

-any patching compounds for wall and ceiling joints (1977) – includes asbestos spackling compounds

-asbestos-cement corrugated sheet

-asbestos-cement flat sheet

-asbestos cement pipe (usually air ducts or chimneys)

-asbestos cement shingle

-asbestos exterior siding

-asbestos millboard (similar to cement asbestos roof shingles and siding)

FIREPLACES

-artificial ashes and embers in gas fireplaces (pre 1977)

ROOFING

-roof coatings/shingles

-roofing felt

-asbestos base flashing – i.e. roofing mastics and sealants

ADDITIONAL:

-asbestos cloth – i.e. asbestos air duct vibration dampers

-asbestos containing appliances

-asbestos water heater jacket insulation