5 Tips for Improving Summer Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) from AdvantaClean of Cary/ Apex

anankkml_FDPSummer in the Triangle means almost constant use of air conditioning systems in homes and businesses. Some components within these units can become a possible source for mold and bacteria; each is easily spread when blown into and recirculated through air ducts. To maintain healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) in the Triangle, it’s important that the HVAC system and components be inspected and cleaned about once a year. Any unusual odor, like mustiness, when the air conditioning is running, could be good indicator that something normal. Often it can be the air conditioning cooling (evaporator) coil. In addition, moisture and mold from other sources, such as a plumbing leak; may be getting into the HVAC system. These situations can occur during a hot North Carolina summer, especially in modern tightly-sealed buildings. AdvantaClean of Cary / Apex offers a range of important services to help home and business owners improve and maintain IAQ.

AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex offers five important tips for improving summer indoor air quality:

  • Have an annual air conditioner coil cleaning: During normal A/C operation, water condenses from warm air blown over the cool coils in the air handler unit, and is drained to the outdoors. Because moisture is present, mold can develop, especially if the system isn’t draining properly or dust has accumulated. Getting the coils cleaned increases air conditioning efficiency and improves IAQ.
  • Test for mold if odors or allergy symptoms persist: Mold may not be visible anywhere in the building, but could be growing in unseen areas or even within the HVAC system. Mold testing and laboratory analysis of collected samples can verify the presence or absence of mold. AdvantaClean is IICRC Certified to perform the testing and remove mold.
  • HEPA vacuum cleaners remove fine particles: Conventional vacuum cleaners, especially the common bag design, tend to blow fine particles such as dust mites, pet dander, mold, and their allergens back into the air. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum cleaners incorporate the use of filters to eliminate this problem, and their use can thus significantly improve IAQ.
  • Common materials and activities can be problematic: Many common floor coverings and furnishings can affect IAQ. These often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals, especially when new, and ventilation with outdoor air is necessary. The same applies with many household cleaners, candles, air fresheners, and cooking.
  • Keep HVAC air ducts clean: The large volumes of indoor air that move through an HVAC system every day contain dust, microbes, and chemicals. Using good HVAC filters and changing at recommended intervals can help, but ultimately the ducts may still need cleaning. AdvantaClean is certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) to perform this work.

AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex is the local Triangle firm to call for improving and maintaining indoor air quality in homes and businesses. We are the go-to solution for air duct cleaning, mold testing and remediation, and air conditioner coil cleaning. We offer great customer service and 24/7 availability.

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AdvantaClean of Cary and Apex is your environmental specialist in Wake and Johnston Counties. Our team of certified professionals is ready to address all your service needs.

Your air quality and restoration specialists

Call 919 434 7249

AdvantaClean

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In the Triangle, Black Mold’s Biggest Enemy is Just a Phone Call Away!

what_is_mold pmMold is never good. The presence of mold in a building reduces air quality, causes illness in friends, family and coworkers, and spreads very quickly.

AdvantaClean Environmental of  Cary/Apex is THE mold removal specialist in the Triangle and Southwest Wake County. If there is even the slightest suspicion of mold growth, we can inspect and test for spores, and stop the problem before it gets any worse.

There are thousands of varieties of mold in the air, and some are more harmful than others.  Black mold is the subspecies of mold that causes the most harm to human beings.  Luckily, there are many ways to identify a black mold problem within a home, business or commercial building.

Here are seven signs that may imply the presence of black mold spores:

  • Symptoms that include: eye irritation, coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion or increased allergies
  • Staining, swelling or crumbling of plaster or drywall
  • Musty odor or unusual dampness
  • Sunken areas in baseboards
  • Separation of baseboards from the wall or floor
  • Discoloration around air conditioning vents
  • White patches under carpet or linoleum, in cabinets or behind furniture

If mold is present, AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex will test a culture of the mold to determine the actual amount within the home or building. Once the amount and locations of the mold are determined, mold will be removed by safely following proper procedures to ensure the containment and disposal of mold spores without causing any further spreading or damage.

AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex knows the importance of both time and safety and will remove and clean the affected areas as quickly and effectively as possible.  For a home, we will seek to minimize the amount of family time that is lost due to the situation. For businesses and commercial buildings, we know that time is money, and we will get in, repair the problem, and get out as quickly as possible so business can resume as usual.

If mold is the problem, AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex is the answer!  Contact us today for any questions, or to schedule an inspection.

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If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at this AdvantaClean Environmental Cary/ Apex blog for much more information on home restoration, air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex, Your Restoration Specialist in the Triangle

adclWhen disaster strikes, time is of the essence when it comes to restoring normalcy. It must be remembered that the longer damage of any kind goes unattended after a destructive event, the worse it can become.  AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex is on call 24/7 to serve you and help reconstruct and restore homes and businesses immediately after the wake of an incident.

There are many different factors that can cause damage to a home or business.  For example, bad weather can bring flooding, high winds or even lightning damage to the Triangle. Fires can happen in appliances that are not properly maintained or are clogged like dirty dryer vents.  The possibilities are endless when it comes to the problematic sources. No matter the damage, a call to AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex to restore and rebuild quickly can help that return to normalcy.

AdvantaClean offers three important types of damage remediation to get your home or business restored back to original condition:

  • Flood and Water damage:  Water can cause extreme damage to the infrastructure of a building.  Water may enter a home or business due to heavy rains or other issues; whatever the cause, the result of too much water is always serious. Removing waterlogged boards that can now rot will rescue a compromised structure from future failure.  Timely action is essential in repairing water damage.
  • Fire and Smoke damage:  Fire can often be more damaging to a structure than water.  Sometimes, fire damage is so severe that repair is virtually impossible.  But in many cases, contained fires will damage a specific area which will need to be quickly repaired. Even if a small burn occurs and does not leave extensive damage, the smoke can leave behind a powerful odor throughout a building, or discoloration on walls and ceilings.  These issues can all be resolved by our AdvantaClean team of professionals.
  • Mold contaminationThere are thousands of types of mold. About 1000 of these are found indoors and of those, 80 actually cause illness.  Mold spores can enter a home through many different venues.  The most common cause of mold is water damage, but can also be merely the presence of excessive moisture in a room or structure.  Our IICRC certified professionals can perform an inspection of any building in accordance with EPA standards.  And mold found will be eradicated promptly so that healthy breathing can resume.

When damage occurs, call the pros!  Contact AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex for any repairs or restorations, and know the job will be done right.

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If you enjoyed this article about restoration, be sure to take a look at other AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex blog posts for additional information on air quality, disaster support,  and ventilation maintenance!

Photo: AdvantaClean

Also, find us here!

Online: www.advantaclean.com/cary-nc

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Contact: Mark.England@advantaclean.com

Toll Free: 877 800 2382

Local: 919 434 7249

Mobile: 919 434 5546

FAX: 866 811 0428

AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex, Your Triangle’s Indoor Air Specialists

john Kasawa acDuring October through March here in the Triangle, it is an obvious fact that people spend much more time indoors.  The average American spends about 86% of the day indoors during the winter.  This means that the quality of the air we breathe indoors is one of the largest factors affecting our health throughout the cooler seasons.  The indoor air needs to be clean and free of toxins, so that we can continue to function properly while spending more time inside.

AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex is the number one air quality specialist in the Triangle.  For any type of building, from homes to apartment buildings, office spaces to commercial structures like malls and hospitals, AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex can provide premium quality assessment and control for indoor air no matter the setting. 

Air quality in the home is extremely important, especially when children are involved.  Any pollutants in the air a child breathes during developmental stages can be problematic in the form of respiratory degradation or other complications.  Even for a household with no children, lowered air quality can cause sickness and a general feeling of weakness for those who live there.

In a commercial setting, especially highly trafficked spaces like malls, the number of people affected by the air quality on a day to day basis can be endless.  In a hospital or nursing home, where inhabitants may already have lowered immunity, the quality of air is absolutely crucial.

Here are three services AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex can provide to improve air quality:

  • Air Duct Cleaning: A thorough cleaning of all air system components should be done at least once a year, if not more often. 
  • Mold Testing and Removal:  Mold, even in mild form, can cause breathing problems. An inspection can be done to estimate the amount of mold within a building.  If mold is found, a removal may be necessary.
  • Water Damage Restoration:  If not cleaned up quickly, water damage can lead to major issues in air quality.

Air quality is not something to be taken lightly; but it is something that can be managed. Call AdvantaClean of Cary today to schedule a walkthrough of any building for a risk assessment, and start breathing better now!

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If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at this AdvantaClean Environmental Cary/ Apex blog for much more information on home restoration, air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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Photo: John Kasawa, freedigitalphotos.net

Backed Up Pipe Problems in the Home or Office?

sewage_removalAdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex Can Make It Right! Water damage is never a very good experience when it happens in the home or office.  When the damage comes from the plumbing itself, water and all types of other waste, food scraps and even sewage come flooding into a space.  This can be a major problem for everyone in the building or home environment.

AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex knows how to remedy these situations properly, and with a strategy of professionalism and urgency!

Cleaning all the damage up quickly is crucial for everyone involved for three critical reasons:

  • Water damage causes mold.  If not quickly and properly removed, water can cause deep- seated problems to emerge down the road.  Any moisture left behind after pipes back up can eventually lead to an outbreak of mold in a home or office.  Mold is a health hazard, and is difficult to remediate.  Wasting time getting water cleaned up can lead to a much bigger problem down the road.
  • Waste water from backed up pipes brings toxins into the home or office.  Particles in the water that comes from pipes, whether it is sewage or decayed food matter, can bring toxins into the air which flows throughout the building.  These pollutants can be detrimental to the health of everyone in the building if not eradicated promptly.  The AdvantaClean Environmental team of Cary/ Apex will safely remove all hazardous materials using standard IICRC cleanup practices, so as to ensure the safety of everyone in the home or place of business.
  • Improper cleanup can be structurally damaging.  If water is not removed from a building promptly and properly, it can seep into porous walls and floors and get into the wooden structure of a building.  This water can cause a slow rot in the wood that will compromise the integrity of the structure, and lead to major damage in the future.

When pipes back up, waste no time in contacting AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex!  Our professionals will get the space cleared out safely so life and business can resume as usual.

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If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at this AdvantaClean Environmental Cary/ Apex blog for much more information on home restoration, air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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AdvantaClean Environmental Combats Mold in the Triangle!

moldHere in the Triangle, we have a lot of humidity.  This intense humidity is especially prevalent in the summertime when heavy rains and high temperatures seem almost endless, but this humidity lingers year round.  When it accumulates inside a home or place of business, the result can be extremely damaging!  AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex is here to help.

Most moisture enters a building as a result of the weather, but other factors can also cause dampness to appear.  Activities like coming inside after a swim in the pool before completely drying off, or boiling pasta without turning on the hood vent system can be other critical sources of moisture.  When moisture remains for any period of time inside the home or building, it can cause mold to grow.

Mold is a fungus which thrives here in the Triangle. It can spread rapidly throughout a building by the transference of spores, and this process will also greatly reduce inside air quality. Incidentally, many people can have mild to significant allergic reactions to mold. Even if someone does not have allergies, mold spores in the air can possibly create some form of health issue if not controlled. AdvantClean  Environmental of Cary/Apex, NC wants to help prevent mold related health issues.

Here are three invaluable services we provide:

  • Mold InspectionEven if mold is not readily visible, it can be spread deeply throughout the walls.  High risk areas where moisture is  accompanied by high temperatures, should be inspected regularly for mold.  Also, if health issues become apparent and seem to have no source, mold could be the invisible cause of diminished wellness.  Have a certified professional, such as AdvantaClean, perform a thorough inspection.
  • Mold TestingMold testing is the most accurate way to determine the amount of mold residing within a space, by measuring the concentration of spores in the air.  Mold testing should be done at the first sign of mold growth!
  • Mold RemediationOnce mold is discovered in a building, remediation should be done immediately.  The longer mold stays in a building, the further it spreads.  AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex  is the Triangle’s licensed team of mold remediation professionals that handle the removal of mold quickly and efficiently; we know that life needs to get back to normal.

If there is any indication that mold may have entered a home or building, call AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex to come and handle the situation properly.  Family and friends, employees and co-workers will thank you for it!

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If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at the AdvantaClean blog for much more information on home restoration, air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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Dryer Vent Safety in Cary and Apex NC

dryer_vent_cleaningOne highly overlooked, yet remarkably under-estimated service that AdvantaClean provides for homes and businesses is dryer vent cleaning.  This cost effective service not only lowers energy bills, it also lowers the risk of fires!  For any home or business owner, it is recommended having dryer vents cleaned once a year.  But apart from this rule of thumb there are several warning signs that can mean it is time for a clean!

Dryer vents need a complete cleaning if:

  • There is an increase in the energy bill!
  • Dryers are hot to the touch after running.
  • More than one cycle is needed to dry a load of clothes.
  • Clothes smell “musty” after being in the dryer.

The dryer vents are the ductwork which connects a dryer to the outside world. These vents can become clogged with debris over time, mostly clothing fiber like cotton, polyester and wool. These highly flammable materials can be a major hazard to the integrity of a building, and its resistance to fires.

Cleaning dryer ducts can reduce fire hazard levels and:

  • Increase the efficiency of the appliance, lowering energy bills.
  • Extend the life of the appliance, and of your home or business!
  • Clothes will dry more quickly and evenly.
  • Reduce the risk of mold or mildew growth on clothes and in the building.
  • Give peace of mind by knowing that fire risk is greatly reduced!

If any of the above factors are showing up in your dryer, do not waste time in calling AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex to remedy the situation.  Our team of licensed professionals will efficiently handle the vent cleaning, and make sure the building is secure from any potential of fire damage caused by the neglect of dryer vents.  Call us TODAY to have your vents assessed, and be assured that your home or business will continue to be safe and sound.

You family and your home depend on it.

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If you enjoyed this article about dryer vent safety, be sure to take a look at the AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex blog for much more information on air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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5 Reasons to Not Delay Water Cleanup in Cary and Apex NC

Advantaclean_Image6Water damage is a major hassle to deal with even in small amounts. Cleaning up after the water event can take a lot of effort and a lot of time if handled by the homeowner. Water damage can be caused by anything from burst pipes to flash flooding, and can cause considerable destruction of a home or building on both a cosmetic and deeper level.

Heavy rainfall can sometimes catch us off guard and produce situations that can create damage.  Whether a flash flood causes water to enter a home or business on the ground floor, or excessive rainfall oversaturates the soil and forces water into a crawlspace or basement, the damage needs to be repaired immediately, as soon as it is discovered.  No matter how extensive the problem, the longer the cleanup is delayed, the worse it will become.

Here are five reasons to call AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/Apex immediately when water damage occurs:

  • 24/7 emergency responseWhen water enters a home or business, no matter the cause, it must be resolved quickly to avoid further destruction.  AdvantaClean’s certified professionals will be there to remedy the issue as quickly as possible, so as to avoid further damage.
  • Prevent further damage When water damage occurs, time is of the essence when it comes to repairs!  A restoration team will do all they can to halt the destructive process and reduce the number of necessary repairs.  Insurance companies want to see quick response from an owner when damage occurs.
  • Thorough assessmentAdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex will inspect every aspect of the damage, and take the necessary precautions to prevent future issues.  Water can get into walls and under floors, and cause rot and mold growth!  Don’t just fix what’s on the surface, make sure you’re safe from further problems in the future.
  • Complete communication Knowledgeable and qualified technicians will give fully detailed estimates of damage, and coordinate with insurance companies to help things run smoothly.  Status updates will keep you informed and in the loop.
  • A team you can trust The professionals at AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex know that quick and efficient cleanup is a must, so that things can get back on schedule.  Total transparency and professional handling of the situation will ease the tension, and you’ll rest assured that you can rely on AdvantaClean in the future!

If water causes any damage to a home or business, don’t hesitate to call AdvantaClean right away.  These certified professionals know how to solve and situation.  You won’t regret it, and neither will your building!

AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary and Apex is always there for you, your family and your business.

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Photo: AdvantaClean

If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at the AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex blog for much more information on air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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3 Reasons to Have Office and Home Air Ducts Cleaned Today!

what_are_air_ductsPerhaps the most important factor that determines health here in the Triangle is the quality of the air we breathe in our homes and offices.  Environmental circumstances can affect air quality, making the air unique from place to place.  If you live near the ocean, the air is salty.  If you live near a city, there may be smog in the air.  However, because the air inside buildings is controlled, it has much less environmental variation.

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) determined that Americans spend much more than half of our day inside.  This means, more than half the air we breathe is controlled through ventilation systems and ductwork.  This also means that the cleanliness of the duct work throughout the home or building directly affects the health of everyone who loves or works there.

The experienced professional team at AdvantaClean of Cary/Apex understands the importance of a building’s ductwork, and genuinely care about the health of the good people here in Central North Carolina.  A building’s air duct system, be it a commercial, industrial, governmental or residential building, must be regularly cleaned and maintained.  There is no better company to handle this maintenance properly and efficiently in the Triangle.  When it comes to air quality and healthier living, your air is in good hands with AdvantaClean!

Here are three undeniable reasons to have an air duct cleaning by AdvantaClean:

  • Health: Through regular occupancy of a building, several allergens are released into the air.  As the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system circulates the air, these allergens are continuously moving throughout the building.  This is true in homes, office buildings, industrial buildings, businesses or any other commercial buildings. Having a rigorous air duct cleaning performed, consistent with NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) guidelines, by a certified AdvantaClean specialist will improve the health of everyone who occupies the building.
  • Efficiency: If there is poor circulation coming from a HVAC system, having it cleaned professionally will increase both functionality and efficiency.  The utility bill will directly benefit from the cleanliness and function of the HVAC system!
  • Peace of mind: Having air ducts maintained regularly will reduce several insurance risks!  Ensure the health of family members, employees, clients and patients, as well as the life of the building, by keeping air ducts clean!

Health is the number one concern of AdvantaClean of Cary/ApexCall today to schedule a free evaluation of your air duct system, and start breathing easier!

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If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at the AdvantaClean blog for much more information on air quality and ventilation maintenance!

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4 Environmental Services in Apex & Cary that Promote Healthy Living!

thA recent survey of national activity patterns concluded that most people spend about 90% of their daily lives indoors.  Between work and home, there is a very good chance that most people are inside for most of the day.

There is a reason for the varying quality of the air people breathe.  Most buildings have ventilation systems which filters the air. These systems, as well as the functionality of the building’s internal environment, contribute to the quality of the air that is circulated. There is truth in the fact that air quality influences our level of health!  That’s why it is essential that we keep buildings optimized for quality air filtration.  The mission of AdvantaClean Environmental of Apex/ Cary is to do just that in both residential and commercial properties.

AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex has 20 years of combined experience in air quality optimization!  Our goal is to increase air quality to promote healthier living at home, in the office or any other place we spend time inside.

AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex can offer these principal four services, as well as others, to promote cleaner air and healthier living:

  • Mold Remediation.  Mold in a home, business or office building can cause extremely harmful spores to enter the air, making it dangerous to breathe.  Keeping a building mold free is very important for the health of the people who live and work inside.  AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex can inspect, test for and remove mold.
  • Air Duct Cleaning.  The air ducts and filters keep air clean and breathable.  They should be cleaned regularly to ensure maximum filtration, and to keep good quality air circulating within the building.
  • Water Damage Restoration.  Water damage is the leading cause of mold and mildew formation inside a building or home.  Stop problems before they start by having a professional cleaning by our team of experts immediately after the damage occurs.
  • Dryer Vent Cleaning.  This is a key aspect of residential maintenance in homes today.  Cleaning the dryer vent improves the quality of air in a home, as well as the efficiency of the appliance itself.  This regular service will usually lower the energy bill on a monthly basis!

Don’t let any of these issues affect the quality of air in home and office. Call AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex to get an air quality assessment, and start living a healthier life!

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If you enjoyed this article about cleaner breathing and healthier living, be sure to take a look at the AdvantaClean Environmental of Apex/ Cary blog post for additional information on air quality and ventilation maintenance!

Photo: AdvantaClean Environmental of Cary/ Apex

Also, find us here!

Online: www.advantaclean.com/cary-nc

On Facebook

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdvantaCleanNC1

Contact: Mark.England@advantaclean.com

Toll Free: 877 800 2382

Local: 919 434 7249

Mobile: 919 434 5546

FAX: 866 811 0428