Mold Growth

Mold Growth | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Decatur

Decatur’s steamy summers and mild, damp winters create the perfect breeding ground for mildew and mold—but they don’t stand a chance against HEP’s Mold Growth Heating and Air Conditioning team. Our certified technicians pair cutting-edge humidity control technology with meticulous craftsmanship, sealing out excess moisture before it seeps into walls, carpets, and crawl spaces. By tailoring each system to the unique square footage and airflow of your home, we help you breathe cleaner, healthier air while protecting the value of your biggest investment.

From the initial assessment to final walkthrough, we make the entire process effortless. You’ll receive clear, upfront pricing, punctual arrivals, and respectful service that never leaves a mess behind. Best of all, our comprehensive warranties and 24/7 emergency support mean your comfort is covered long after the installation is complete. When neighbors talk about reliable dehumidifier installation in Decatur, they’re talking about HEP—because we don’t just manage humidity; we master it.

FAQs

Why is mold growth so common in Decatur homes, and how can a whole-home dehumidifier help?

Decatur’s warm climate and frequent summer storms create prolonged periods of high relative humidity—often above 60 percent—which is the threshold where mold spores thrive. A whole-home dehumidifier ties directly into your heating and air-conditioning ductwork to remove excess moisture from every room. By keeping indoor humidity in the optimal 40-50 percent range, it deprives mold of the moisture it needs, protects wood and drywall from deterioration, and makes your air-conditioning system run more efficiently.

How do I know if I need a dehumidifier installed in my HVAC system?

Persistent indoor humidity above 55 percent, musty odors, condensation on windows, cupping hardwood floors, or visible mold on walls and vents are clear warning signs. If your air-conditioner runs constantly yet the air still feels clammy, or if your family suffers from increased allergies and respiratory irritation, a dehumidifier is likely the missing piece. A quick indoor air-quality test by a professional can confirm humidity levels and recommend the proper solution.

What size or capacity dehumidifier is right for my home?

Whole-home dehumidifiers are rated by how many pints of water they can remove per day. In Decatur’s climate, most 2,000–3,500 ft² homes do well with a 70-95-pint unit, while larger or more humid homes may require 120 pints or more. Proper sizing also accounts for the home’s insulation level, number of occupants, and typical indoor activities such as cooking and showering. Our technicians perform a Manual J moisture load calculation to select a unit that is powerful enough to control humidity without wasting energy.

Will adding a dehumidifier increase my energy bills?

Surprisingly, most homeowners see little to no net increase—and many experience a reduction. By removing latent moisture, the dehumidifier allows your air conditioner to cycle off sooner and at a higher thermostat setting, because dry air feels cooler. Modern ENERGY STAR®-rated units use efficient refrigeration coils and variable-speed fans that draw about the same power as a small window A/C. Over time, lowering humidity also protects HVAC components and ductwork from mold and corrosion, reducing repair costs.

What is involved in the professional installation process for a whole-home dehumidifier?

1) Assessment: We measure indoor humidity, inspect ductwork, and choose a mounting location—usually in the attic, basement, or mechanical closet. 2) Duct Integration: Supply and return ducts are added so the dehumidifier can treat the entire air stream. 3) Drainage: A dedicated condensate line with an optional pump is run to a floor drain or the exterior to carry away water. 4) Electrical: The unit is hard-wired or plugged into a nearby dedicated circuit per code. 5) Controls: A wall-mounted digital humidistat—often tied into your smart thermostat—gives you precise control and alerts. The whole job typically takes 4–6 hours and requires no structural changes to your home.

How should I maintain my dehumidifier and HVAC system to prevent mold long-term?

Replace or clean the dehumidifier filter every 3–6 months, just as you do with your HVAC filters. Flush the condensate line annually with a bleach or vinegar solution to keep algae from blocking the drain. During your spring and fall HVAC tune-ups, have the technician inspect the dehumidifier’s coils, fan, and humidistat for proper operation. Keep indoor humidity at or below 50 percent year-round, promptly repair roof or plumbing leaks, and run exhaust fans during cooking and showering. With this simple upkeep, you can expect 10–15 years of reliable mold prevention from your system.