Humidity and Condensation in Puerto Rican Properties can Create Mold & Dust Mite Problems

Although the weather can vary greatly in different parts of the islands of Puerto Rico, many regions experience high relative humidity levels on a regular basis.  According to WeatherSpark, the relative humidity levels recorded at the international airport in San Juan typically range between 57% and 92%.
 
High humidity levels mean there is significant moisture in the air that can cause condensation in homes and buildings.  Condensation occurs when water vapor in the air is changed into liquid water. In an indoor environment, it can take only a slight drop in temperature for condensation to ensue. Serious condensation issues can become a real problem as they may result in property damage, the growth of mold, and when caused by high humidity levels, could even signal the presence of large numbers of dust mites indoors.
 
Dust mites absorb water from the air and their environment and do not drink water so they thrive in warm environments with high humidity.  Dust mites are a known asthma trigger and many people are allergic to their presence.  Mold growing indoors can expose building occupants to elevated levels of spores in the air they breathe. Molds produce allergens, irritants, and, in some cases, toxic substances known as mycotoxins.  Mold can also trigger an asthma attack in some people and can cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), a disease that resembles bacterial pneumonia.  Some types of mold are also known to be pathogenic and can be a serious health concern for anyone with a weakened immune system. 
 
“There are steps people can take in Puerto Rico to reduce the chances of condensation occurring and improve their indoor environment,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental.  “Vent appliances that produce moisture directly outdoors and use exhaust fans when bathing or when doing things such as cooking or running the dishwasher.  The use air conditioning or a dehumidifier and increasing ventilation can also be helpful during certain times of the year.”
 
People in Puerto Rico and across the Caribbean who suspect they may have moisture and condensation issues can turn to the building science experts at Zimmetry Environmental for solutions.  They offer inspection, testing, monitoring and consulting services to help ensure a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.  Through real-time monitoring and testing services, they can identify issues related to high humidity levels, moisture problems and the presence of mold, dust mites and other allergens and respiratory irritants.   Zimmetry also recently sponsored a video about condensation, humidity, dust mites and mold that can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/QFG53b38XXk
 
To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their indoor environmental quality and compliance testing and consulting services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com .
 
About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals and Fortune 500 companies.  The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America.  The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs and general environmental consulting services.
 

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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