Learn what characteristics to look for when searching for the right air quality testing specialist.
The health of our family and our home is vital. Therefore, it's crucial to select the best air quality testing specialist in your area. There are a lot of self-proclaimed "experts" out there but many of them produce boilerplate reports that don't necessarily identify the problem or provide an effective solution. If you live in Ocala, FL, Gainesville, FL or the surrounding areas, read on to learn what to look for when choosing the right indoor air quality testing consultant.
Great air quality testing specialists prioritize the following.
A report is only as good as the sampling techniques, tools, and lab that was used. Exceptional air quality testing specialists understand the limitations and drawbacks of certain sampling tools and methods. They know when to apply the best tool and technique based on the specific air quality problem. At Air Logics, we rarely take samples from visible microbial growth areas. It's important to sample from different areas throughout the home or business to get a clearer overall picture of the problem.
Uneducated assessors will take growth from visible areas (which is pointless). The same can be said with a wall cavity. If you sample any wall cavity in a typical Florida home, of course you're going to find some presence of mold. This isn't necessarily a good indicator of a problem. Other poor examples of sampling include:
In a typical Florida house, we run a full panel (outside control/baseline sample), 2 air samples, 2 surface samples, and a swab sample from the HVAC coil or blower (internal mechanics). We don't just go in there and set up a pump in the living room and take a sample. Rather, the first thing we look at is how the house is laid out to determine the air currents and then determine the best location to take a sample. For example, if the kitchen is contaminated, we want to see if it's also migrated to other parts of the house. In other words, we're developing a theory on what is happening before we even begin to take samples.
Lastly, calibration is a crucial component of successful air quality assessments. We calibrate our pumps onsite and before every assessment. We do a sampling both inside and outside of the home.
If an air quality testing specialist is worth their salt, they will also perform a water/moisture inspection on every assessment. Identifying and fixing the source of the issue is crucial to prevent recurring problems. Again, you want to get a full picture of the entire home, not just sample and identify the obvious.
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Lastly, a great air quality testing specialist will find the source of your air quality issue and lay out a plan to prevent recurrence. Issues with indoor air quality are vast. Here are many of the types of issues we see contributing to health issues:
Once the enemy is identified, you know how to fight him and what to fight him with. Many assessors will come up with bandages or temporary fixes. At Air Logics, we create long-term solutions!
Choosing the right air quality testing specialist is a crucial step in achieving a successful outcome. By following these guidelines and conducting thorough research while selecting a mold assessor, you can find a consultant who aligns with your goals, meets your requirements, and possesses the necessary skills and experience. Taking the time to choose the right assessor will help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, resulting in a healthy and happy home or office!
Read our latest insights on mold assessment and air quality testing.
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