We all know that mold can grow in damp places, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg; mold also has the ability to grow in water.
Not only can mold grow in water, it can then grow in your water system, along your pipes, in shower heads, and more.
If mold happens to enter your water system, it can lead to a number of serious health issues, which is the last thing that you want to happen.
So, here’s your rundown of how water can grow in mold, what effects that mold can have on your health, and how to get rid of mold on pipes.
Can Mold Grow in Water?
Yes, some kinds of mold can grow in water, but it needs specific conditions to do so.
To grow, mold requires moisture, warmth, and a food source. So, standing water in a warm location for an extended period can provide an ideal environment for mold growth. Then, items such as paper water filters and deposits inside pipes can be enough of a food source to kick-start and sustain a colony of black mold in pipes.
This can occur in areas such as basements, bathrooms (particularly in shower drains), or rooms with leaky pipes or roofs. Mold can also grow on constantly damp or wet surfaces, such as shower curtains, bath mats, or carpeting.
How Does Water Get Moldy in Your Water Supply?
Mold can enter a water supply in a variety of ways.
For example:
- If the source of your water supply is contaminated with mold, such as a well or a reservoir, it can introduce mold spores into your water supply.
- Leaky pipes or fixtures can provide a moist environment that promotes mold growth. If mold grows in the pipes, it can release spores into the water as it flows through the system.
- If the water treatment system is not adequately maintained or disinfected, mold can grow in the system and contaminate the water supply.
- Water storage tanks can provide an ideal environment for mold growth if they are not correctly maintained or cleaned. If mold grows in the tank, it can release spores into the water supply.
How Does Mold Get into Water Pipes?
Mold can get into water pipes in several ways, including through the water supply, leaks or cracks in pipes, or by growing inside the pipes.
Water Supply
Mold spores linger in the air in your home and can easily find their way into the water supply. If the water supply is contaminated with mold, it can introduce mold spores into the pipes.
Leaks or Cracks in Pipes
Leaky pipes or fixtures can provide a moist environment that promotes mold growth. If mold grows outside the pipes, it can release spores into the air and potentially get into the pipes through cracks or leaks.
Inside the Pipes
Mold can grow inside pipes if there is a buildup of organic material, such as sediment or biofilm, that provides a nutrient source. Mold can also grow inside pipes if the water is stagnant for an extended period.
Once mold enters the pipes, it can grow and spread throughout the system. This can not only contaminate the water supply and compromise the pipes’ integrity, leading to further leaks and water damage.
What Kinds of Mold Can Grow in Your Water?
Several types of mold can grow in water, but the most common types are:
- Aspergillus
Aspergillus is a type of mold that can be found in both indoor and outdoor environments. It can grow in water-damaged materials and stagnant water.
- Cladosporium
Cladosporium is a common outdoor mold that can also grow indoors. It can grow in water-damaged materials and areas with high humidity levels.
- Penicillium
Penicillium is a common indoor and outdoor mold that can grow in damp areas, including water-damaged materials.
- Fusarium
Fusarium is a mold that can grow in water and on damp surfaces. It can cause health problems in people with weakened immune systems.
- Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys, or “black mold,” is a toxic mold that can grow in water-damaged materials and on constantly damp surfaces. It can cause health problems in people with weakened immune systems.
Can Mold in Your Water System Make You Sick?
It is possible for exposure to mold in your water supply to cause various health problems. This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems or respiratory issues. The severity of the health problems depends on the type of mold and the length and extent of exposure.
Health problems that can be caused by exposure to mold in your water system include:
Allergic Reactions
Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash.
Respiratory Problems
Mold spores can irritate the respiratory system and cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. People with respiratory conditions, like asthma, may experience more severe symptoms.
Infections
Some types of mold can cause infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, chills, and muscle aches.
Toxicity
Certain types of mold, such as Stachybotrys, can produce mycotoxins that can harm humans. Exposure to these toxins can cause various health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
How to Get Rid of Mold in Water Pipes Once and For All
Removing mold from your water system can be a complex process requiring professional help.
Before you can remove the mold, you need to identify the source of the problem. This could be a leak or damage to your water pipes or fixtures or a problem with your water supply.
Next, you need to address the source of moisture. This may involve repairing leaks or other damage to your water system, increasing ventilation in damp areas, or using a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels in your home.
The next step is to have your water tested for mold by a professional laboratory. This will help identify the type and extent of the mold contamination, which, in turn, will help you plan the removal process.
Finally, after removing the mold, the water system should be thoroughly disinfected to kill any remaining mold spores. This can be done with chlorine or other disinfectants.
If the mold contamination is extensive, hiring a professional remediation service is best to remove the mold. Specialists have the equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove mold from your water system.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your water system can help prevent mold growth in the future. This includes regular inspections, cleaning, and promptly addressing any leaks or damage.
How to Prevent Mold in Your Water System
Preventing mold from growing in your water system is critical to maintaining a healthy and safe water supply.
1. Mold needs moisture to grow, so keeping your water system dry is essential. This includes repairing leaks or damage to your water pipes or fixtures and ensuring proper ventilation in damp areas.
2. Regular cleaning of your water system can help prevent mold growth. This cleaning can include scrubbing the inside of showerheads and faucets and flushing out any standing water in pipes.
3. Warm water promotes mold growth, so it is crucial to maintain the appropriate water temperature. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests keeping water heaters set at 120°F to 130°F (49°C to 54°C). This temperature will ensure your system is too hot for mold growth.
4. Chlorine and other disinfectants can kill mold spores and prevent their growth. You can disinfect your water system with chlorine tablets or a bleach solution.
5. A water filtration system can help remove impurities from your water supply and prevent mold growth in your system. However, if mold growth is a concern, choosing a filter specifically designed to remove mold spores is essential.
6. Regular water supply testing can help detect mold growth early and prevent further contamination.
7. It is vital to address any water damage promptly. This includes repairing leaks, drying out water-damaged areas, and removing any mold that has already formed.
Can Mold Grow in Water? — Conclusion
If you have concerns about mold in your water system, contact the team here at Diamondback. One of our friendly professionals can help you identify any issues and deal with them promptly.