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Mold can build up under or behind your dishwasher and go unnoticed for a very long time. Most people think that dishwashers are mold-proof because their main purpose is to clean dishes and to prevent their exposure to the harmful fungal spores. However, dishwashers are among the havens for mold. They offer a great environment for the growth of fungi too. If you have one in your home, you should take several steps to prevent and to eliminate their build-up behind and under the machine.

Mold requires only four elements to grow – moisture, heat, organic material and darkness. Unfortunately, dishwashers offer all the four elements because most of them are usually moist, warm, full of leftover food particles and dark. The mold spores are likely to grow inside the unit, behind and under it.

By allowing mold to grow on your dishwasher, you will be putting the health of you and family at a great risk. A study conducted in the year 2011 and appearing in the Fungal Biology journal showed that around 62 percent of dishwashers test positive for fungi and nearly 52 percent of dishwasher users test positive for black yeasts infections. Children, people with weak immune systems and the elderly are at a greater risk for illnesses resulting from mold exposure.

The Common Types of Mold

Even though mold exists in many types, the one that you are likely to find at the back and under your dishwasher is the black mold, known as Stachybotrys chartarum. This type of mold is highly toxic and causes many health problems. Therefore, if you notice any signs of mold growth, you should call the number on our website for a free estimate on mold remediation services. The mold is not only dangerous to humans, it can effect your pets too. The problems it can cause range from respiratory to neurological problems.

Health Issues Caused by Mold

Some neurological symptoms include shortened attention span, confusion, tiredness and difficulty concentrating. Some respiratory health issues include coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, sore throat, runny nose and nose bleeds. The common eye issues include bloodshot or red eyes, eye inflammation and blurry vision. Circulatory health problems are blood clotting issues, low blood pressure and irregular heartbeat.

Even more, mold can cause reproductive and immune system issues such as recurrent infections, infertility and miscarriage. Skin infection symptoms are itchiness, blisters, skin irritations, and rashes. If you notice any of the above problems, you should contact us immediately. The problem can easily get worse if you allow the mold to flourish.

Mold Detection

It is often hard to detect mold behind a dishwasher because it can usually only be seen after removing the dishwasher. To notice the mold easily, you can try to rely on your sense of smell. Mold has an earthy odor. Another method involves using mold-testing kits to help locate mold that is hard to find.

Mold Removal/Remediation Process

If you do find that there is mold behind your dishwasher, it should be remediated right away. Mold experts will probably need to remove your dishwasher, and demolish and replace the contaminated building materials behind and under it.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

Since there is a lot of moisture around dishwashers, it is a common place for mold growth. We recommend that you make sure the wall and floor surrounding the dishwasher are waterproofed, or at least that the dishwasher does not leak any water. If you do notice that your dishwasher is leaking, you should fix the issue and dry the moisture right away to avoid creating a breading ground for mold.

Professional Mold Remediation Services

Even though the removal of mold the DIY way looks easy, it can be dangerous. Therefore, you will need the services of professionals to protect yourself and your family. Call today to get a free quote from a mold remediation expert anywhere in the USA.