Keep Your Dryer Vents Clean

11/24/2023 (Permalink)

Dirty Dryer Vents Can Cause House Fires

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, mundane tasks often take a backseat. One such task that frequently goes unnoticed is dryer vent cleaning – an essential chore that holds more significance than meets the eye. At SERVPRO of Mobile County, we're dedicated to keeping your home safe, and that's why we're shedding light on why dryer vent cleaning should never be overlooked and how often it should be performed.

The dangers of neglecting dryer vent maintenance are not to be underestimated. Over time, lint, debris, and even small particles of clothing can accumulate in your dryer vent, obstructing airflow. This buildup not only reduces the efficiency of your dryer, leading to longer drying times and increased energy consumption but also poses a serious fire hazard. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, clogged dryer vents are responsible for thousands of residential fires each year. Regular cleaning significantly reduces this risk, ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones.

A clogged dryer vent doesn't just jeopardize safety; it also affects the functionality of your appliance. When airflow is restricted, your dryer has to work harder to dry clothes, leading to higher energy bills and potential wear and tear on the machine. Regular vent cleaning not only enhances safety but also ensures optimal dryer performance, extending the appliance's lifespan and saving you money in the long run.

How often should you clean your dryer vents? Experts recommend a thorough cleaning at least once a year. However, if you notice any of the following signs, it's wise to act sooner: longer drying times, hot clothes or a hot dryer after a cycle, a musty smell, or excessive lint accumulation around the dryer or vent.

Elevate Success with Commercial Cleaning

10/27/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mobile County will clean your office.

Maintaining a clean and organized workplace might seem like a trivial matter compared to your towering business goals. However, the truth is, a spotless environment is more than just aesthetics – it's a catalyst for success. Investing in commercial cleaning can be the game-changer that propels your business to new heights.

• Prevention Over Cure: Picture this – a minor water leak left unattended, slowly growing into a mold infestation. With regular commercial cleaning, these issues can be identified and resolved before they spiral into major problems. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, businesses that prioritize cleanliness and maintenance save money by preventing costly repairs and downtime.

• Preserve Your Investments: Dirt and grime may seem harmless, but they can wreak havoc on your equipment, surfaces, and supplies over time. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of corrosive particles, extending the lifespan of your valuable assets. The International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) estimates that proper cleaning can reduce equipment replacement costs by up to 10%.

• Boost Employee Morale: A tidy workspace isn't just about appearances – it significantly influences the well-being and productivity of your team. The American Journal of Infection Control reports that clean environments reduce employee sick days and boost overall morale. A clean and organized workspace fosters a positive atmosphere that encourages focus, creativity, and collaboration.

• Statistics Speak: The numbers don't lie. Research conducted by the Healthy Facilities Institute revealed that a clean workplace reduces employee sick days by up to 46%. In another study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, a clean work environment was found to increase employee productivity by 5%. These statistics underscore the tangible benefits that a clean workplace offers.

As the saying goes, cleanliness is next to godliness, and the same can be said for your business success. Commercial cleaning isn't just about aesthetics – it's a strategic investment in your operations, your assets, and your workforce. By partnering with SERVPRO of Mobile County, you're ensuring a workplace that's not only visually appealing but also conducive to growth, health, and productivity. Elevate your business by embracing the transformative power of cleanliness.

The Esporta Washing System

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

The Esporta Washing System will leave your clothes clean and sanitary.

We understand that restoring what matters most goes beyond mere cleaning – it's about preserving memories. The Esporta Washing System redefines the concept of clean, ensuring your treasured belongings are not just cleaned, but revitalized.

Imagine your cherished items – from clothing to soft furnishings – impeccably restored to their preloss condition. This innovative system utilizes hydraulic pressure and specially formulated detergents to eliminate contaminants, bacteria, and odors from a wide range of materials.

From smoke-damaged sports gear to water-soaked heirlooms, it has salvaged items that were previously deemed irreparable. This goes beyond physical restoration; it's about preserving the essence of what matters most to you.

At SERVPRO of Mobile County, we're not just restoring items – we're restoring lives. The Esporta Washing System encapsulates our commitment to providing you with top-tier restoration, while safeguarding the memories that make your life extraordinary.

Tips to Keep Your Carpet Looking Beautiful

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

Carpet is a popular flooring option for many homes, but it requires proper care to keep it looking new. Here are some tips to help you properly care for your carpet:

1. Vacuum regularly - Regular vacuuming is essential to remove dirt, dust, and other particles that accumulate in the fibers of your carpet. This will help to prevent the buildup of dirt, which can cause damage and fading over time.

2. Spot clean spills immediately - Spills and stains can quickly ruin the look of your carpet. It is important to act quickly to remove any spills before they have a chance to set into the fibers. Blot the spill with a clean cloth, then use a stain remover specifically designed for the type of stain.

3. Use a carpet protector - A carpet protector is a spray that you can apply to your carpet to help prevent spills and stains from setting in. This can be especially helpful if you have children or pets in your home.

4. Have your carpet professionally cleaned by SERVPRO- Professional carpet cleaning should be done at least once a year to remove deep-seated dirt and grime. A professional cleaning will also help to refresh the look of your carpet and remove any allergens or pollutants that may be present.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your carpet stays looking new and fresh for many years to come.

The New Age of Textile Cleaning

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

State of the Art Cleaning System

As the SERVPRO name has become synonymous with the best in restoration and cleaning services for your home or business, the Esporta® name represents the best in textile cleaning. This amazing system is the biggest breakthrough in washing technology in nearly thirty years. What makes this system so radically different and more effective than previous machines? The secret lies in the combination of a patented system of hydraulic pressure paired with a combination of specifically blended detergents to target each item. This allows you to clean a wider variety than ever before, ranging from soft textiles to hard goods. If you are like most people, you probably have no idea about the history of washing machines so allow us to enlighten you. 

The first automatic washing machine was introduced by Bendix in 1937. The machine introduced by Bendix was the first to use a drum and agitation to clean. Amazing as it may seem, this has remained the principle of all washing machines even in today’s time. These systems continue to work for families as a means of everyday laundering, but it can’t handle the challenges of the cleaning and restoration industry that require a much deeper cleanse due to severe damage from severe situations. The Esporta® washing system consists of five main factors that set it apart from traditional cleaning methods. First, the Esporta system utilizes hydraulic pressure as opposed to traditional agitation. This removes both organic and inorganic compounds and is proven to result in 99% efficacy. This method also reduces wear and tear on the fabrics so that your items may be returned to you in the ways they looked when they were first purchased. Secondly, the items are held stationary in each compartment of the machine while water and detergents are forced through, allowing for cleaning of a wide range of textiles/items. Third, the system uses a four-stage detergent process. This provides for a pH neutral washing environment, preserving the color fastness and fabric strength. Next, the water is typically stabilized at room temperature, eliminating shrinkage or damage to the fabric which is major in the restoration of your textiles. The last portion is the drying process which for a lot of people is the trickiest part when doing their own laundry. We are proud to say that we have designed and built a customized low heat drying chamber that works by gently drawing moisture out of the items. This prevents damage resulting from heat or tumbling that would happen in a traditional dryer. 

We used our Esporta® cleaning system to help out a local high school football team. Our Esporta® cleaning system to clean football equipment of shoulder pads.

Not something you would typically hear about, but there is so much that this system can clean. Have items you feel have no hope in restoring? Give us a call and we might change that narrative for you! 251-343-0534.

Common Types of Carpet Damage

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

You can see here that the glue adhering the back of the carpet has come loose allowing it to separate from the carpeting.

Home carpeting is a big investment and it requires regular maintenance and care to keep it looking (and smelling) its best.  Pets, kids and typical wear and tear can take its toll.  It is important that you call an IICRC Certified Company like SERVPRO of Mobile County to come out and perform regular cleanings. Our Certified Carpet Cleaning Technicians have the knowledge and training to provide outstanding results.  We recommend that you get your carpets cleaned at least once a year, or every 6 months for high-traffic, high-soil areas.  When trying to keep your carpet in the best shape possible, it is also extremely important to understand the most common causes of carpet damage:

• Stains – From red wine and juice boxes to oil and ink, there are a million different ways your carpeting can get stained. It is important to address spotting as quickly as possible and use solutions for the specific type of stain.
• Burns – Although most carpet burns are the result of careless smokers, falling irons are also a common cause of damage. It is important to avoid ironing over carpet.  Once carpeting is burned, the only solution is to cut out the affected area and replace it.
• Bulging and Rippling – This is a common issue for older carpeting and occurs when the carpeting is no longer pulled tight. You should call a qualified carpeting expert to come in and re-stretch your carpets.
• Tufting – This is when loose fibers are stretched out and may be longer than the rest of the carpet fibers. Resist the urge to pull on the fiber and simply clip with scissors.

The best way to protect your carpets is to prevent damage from occurring.  Although all carpeting has a limited lifespan, following proper maintenance guidelines can help you significantly extend the life of your carpet.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Mobile County today at  251-343-0534 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Textile Cleaning with Esporta Washing System

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

The Esporta washing system allows us to clean up to 99.9997% of contaminants from soft contents after a fire or water damage.

Did you know SERVPRO of Mobile one of the only restoration companies along the Gulf Coast to offer the Esporta washing system?  This revolutionary machine works of a 4-quadrant designs that holds textiles and soft contents securely in place.  Water and a customized blend of cleaning solutions are pushed through the quadrants flushing out contaminants.  The Esporta machine can safely and effectively treat contents affected by soot, sewage, and even mold.  And it's not just for textiles.  We have effectively cleaned a wide range of soft contents including leather goods, shoes, hats, stuffed animals and even porcelain dolls.  Of course, many of these items can't be dried in your standard dryer.  We designed and built a custom drying chamber that is based on the same principals used for drying water damage.  Items are placed in an enclosed space while temperature and humidity are kept at optimal levels to pull the moisture out.  

Green Cleaning in Mobile, AL

3/4/2018 (Permalink)

Spring is means it’s time for the heavy duty scrubbing that we have neglected over the past few months. Do you dread the thought of all that cleaning? Maybe you don't know how to best clean certain areas or you don't have the proper tools to do the job. Whatever the case don't forget that green means clean! Let SERVPRO of Mobile County wipe your worries away and get your home or office in tip top shape to kick off the summer season.  And you can rest assured that all of our cleaning methods are effective and safe for you, your home and our environment.  When we say GREEN CLEANING, we aren’t just talking about the color of our uniforms! We will make it, "Like it never even happened."