The environmental issues plaguing the apartment complex which created a substantial mold problem last summer led the university to recently install new equipment on the roof.
The equipment, installed over winter break, consisted of dehumidification units and new air handlers. Both of these equipment upgrades were planned.
“The consultant that assisted us [EnviroMed] during the summer recommended this new equipment be installed,” said Gary Stephenson, director of housing operations.
The old air handlers were also updated to give additional airflow to the interior of the apartments. They will introduce fresh air at a higher rate than the old ones.
Dehumidification units were put in to assist with keeping the relative humidity around 50 percent. That level of relative humidity is what Fairfield considers optimum for the apartment complex. Lower humidity can cause skin irritation and health concerns for residents while high humidity can cause the mold problems that occurred this summer.
The total cost of the project has not increased due to these two upgrades.
“I have not heard anything different from the last quote of $200,000,” said Stephenson.
Now that the project has been completed, all that remains is memories of the mold infestation.
This summer, 28 students were moved to townhouses after large amounts of mold were found growing in the apartments. Small mold problems were found in two townhouse basements as well, according to Stephenson.
The university tried to correct the problem in-house but was unable to rectify the crisis in the apartments. University personnel cleaned the townhouse basements.
EnviroMed, an outside firm, was called in to rid the buildings of the moisture and humidity, the two major causes of the mold. The entire building was sealed up, and the humidity dropped to an acceptable level. The spots with mold were cleaned using biocide solutions and HEPA vac technology.
The mold was removed before the start of school and the apartments were re-opened for residents to move in for classes. The university has been monitoring the buildings every since.
Even though the project is completed on the apartments, the university will continue to be vigilant with any problems or concerns anywhere on campus.
According to Stephenson, in any building on campus with air conditioning or chilled pipes, there is the potential for condensation. All buildings are monitored for any problems for the foreseeable future.
“We will be as vigilant as possible,” said Stephenson.
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