Mold is a fungus that is found everywhere. It is spread through airborne spores and thrives in damp and humid conditions. While there are many different types of mold, the type falls into one of three categories:
1) Toxigenic molds – cause dangerous health conditions
2) Allergenic molds – cause allergic reactions
3) Pathogenic molds – affect the health of those with an acute illness
Within these categories, there are thousands of different types of mold. Some of these types of mold will just cause minor allergy symptoms, while some can cause major health problems. A few mold types can even cause infection, while other assume an essential job in biodegradation and the generation of different foods.
Mold discharges “spores” into the air. When mold develops inside, the quantity of spores becomes higher. These spores are microscopic, which allows people to breathe them into their lungs. The inhalation of mold spores is the root cause of allergy and health related issues.
Below is a list of common symptoms from mold:
– Itchy eyes
– Watery Nose
– Sneezing
– Coughing
Different types of mold found in your home:
- Aspergillus
- This particular species of mold is classified as an allergenic. It can cause asthma, lung and respitory infections, and can become toxic and even produce aflatoxins. It has over 185 different sub species and can be found in a variety of different colors. The spores are long, flask shaped and can form thick layers of mold.
- Cladosporium
- Cladosporium is an allergenic mold that can grow in warm and cold conditions. It is often found in carpets, drapes, and under floorboards. It can be brown or olive colored with the texture of suede. This particular type of mold can cause eye and ENT allergic reactions, asthma, skin rashes legions and lung infections.
- Penicillin
- Penicillin – Penicillin falls in the allergenic category and is often found in blue or green colors. This type of mold is one of the most common types found in homes and offices. The reason this type of mold is common is because it grows in water damaged/moist areas such as basements and bathrooms.
- Alternaria
- Alternaria is a form allergnic mold that is often dark green or brown. It has a velvet type texture and grows in dark damp areas. This type of mold can cause allergy symptoms such as asthma, itchy eyes, sneezing, and more.
- Fusarum
- Fusarum is in the taxigenic category.This type of mold can not only grow in areas that are both warm and cold, but can also grow in damp or dryer areas. Minor exposure will cause allergy symptoms, but prolonged exposure can dangerous conditions.
Removing Mold
One of the most effective ways to remove mold is by using an air purifier. An air purifier for mold will use a HEPA filter to eliminate 99.97% of mold particles that are at least .3 microns in size. The majority of mold spores range from 3-10 microns which means they will all be captured. An air purifier for mold will also use a UV-C sanitizer. A UV-C sanitizer uses extreme amounts of UV light to burn any microorganisms that enter the purifier. This type of technology will cripple a mold spores ability to regenerate and spread in your home.
Related articles:
Frank is the chief editor and director at Specialty Air, where he oversees testing, research, and editing for all air quality-related articles. Frank is an expert in the air quality space with extensive experience testing, researching, and reviewing air purifiers, air conditioners, air filters, air fresheners, fans, and more. He also has over 4 years of experience with issues surrounding mold remediation, radon mitigation, moisture management, air duct systems, HVAC, and insulation.
