How to Test Your Home for Mold Contamination

Air Pump Method

• 1

  Close the windows in the area to be tested. The area needs to be enclosed for 24 hours prior to testing.

• 2

  Take the air pump and set it in the room to be tested. Ideally, it should be located about 3 to 4 feet off the ground.

• 3

  Break the seal on the sampling container and insert it into the pump.

• 4

  Start the pump for the specified time. This is usually five minutes.

• 5

  When testing is complete, reseal the sample container with the materials provided.

• 6

  Mail the sample back to the lab for testing and verification.

Swab Method

• 7

  Open the tube and remove the test swab.

• 8

  Swab the surface to be tested. The test kit provider will tell you the specified amount of material that the swab should cover for an accurate reading.

• 9

  Insert the swab back into the tube.

• 10

  The swab will turn a specified color in the presence of mold.

Lift Tape Method

• 11

  Write your name, the date and the location on the sample card.

• 12

  Remove the backing from the tape.

• 13

  Press the sticky side of the tape up against the surface to be tested. Do not swab it back and forth.

• 14

  Replace the tape.

• 15

  Mail the sample off for testing.