Summer heat can be a lot of fun, but it also brings with it one major disadvantage: summer humidity. Humidity is unpleasant both in and out, but it’s especially dangerous when combined with a high level of moisture. Mold grows in damp environments very readily. How can you keep your house safe throughout the summer?
Mold is a problem all year round, but it’s worse in the summer. Why? Mold thrives in moist conditions and warmer temperatures. Molds are also more prevalent when there is more rain and humidity. The moisture from rain and humidity can easily get into your roof or walls which creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. Plus, we spend most of our time inside during the summer months so we’re exposed to indoor air quality issues like mold that may not be noticeable during other seasons – especially if you use your A/C often! In this blog, we’ll discuss why mold is worse in the summer and how it can affect your health.
Why is Mold Worse in the Summer?
Mold is categorized as a common allergen. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), mold belongs “to a group of substances that can cause an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive to these allergens.” The presence of mold spores may even affect those who aren’t aware they’re allergic, making it harder to diagnose the source of their symptoms. As summer approaches, you should take precautions to ensure your home isn’t a breeding ground for mold. From the pipes under the sink in your bathroom to the little spot above the washing machine, it seems like mold is worse in the summer months.
What You Can Do to Prevent Mold Growth in Summer?
For mold prevention this summer, make the following changes: Keep humidity levels between 40-60%. Mold can grow in as little as 48 to 96 hours. Change your air filters regularly. If you have a forced air system, this should be done every 3 months. Make sure all your home’s leaks are sealed. If you have a crawl space, ensure all vents are covered. Fix any water damage as soon as possible. Keep rooms completely dry after any leak has been repaired. Allowing mold to grow can lead to serious health problems, so it’s important to keep your home clean and prevent the growth of this fungus.
How To Prevent Mold Growth
Don’t run your A/C in high humidity. High humidity levels can cause mold to grow on the evaporator coil, which is a part of the A/C unit. This will result in a musty smell when you’re using your air conditioning system. In order to fix this issue, call an HVAC specialist immediately if you suspect your A/C is making mold grow. Do not use portable swamp coolers in the summer months. Swamp coolers are widely used to lower indoor humidity, but they are known to cause other issues. Please note that you should never attempt to do any maintenance work on your own when it comes to HVAC systems – this includes replacing evaporator coils, clean filters or even inspect for mold growth!
Common Places for Mold Growth in the Home
Mold growth is most likely to occur in moist places such as:
Kitchen and bathroom sinks, Faucets, Bathroom tiles, Shower curtains, Behind the toilet, Underneath your refrigerator, Underneath your dishwasher, Underneath your kitchen cabinets, Inside of your clothes dryer vent, Inside of your washing machine etc…
The most common types of molds that you find around your home include:
- Acremonium
- Ulocladium
- Alternaria
- Stachybotrys
- Trichoderma
- Aspergillus
- Aureobasidium
And more…
Will Mold Harm Me?
Mold can cause or trigger a variety of adverse health effects, which may include: Headaches, congestion and nausea, Wheezing and difficulty breathing, Skin irritation including pain, redness and swelling, Itchy eyes and runny nose, Allergic reactions, Lung problems including asthma
Even if you are not allergic to mold, the spores can still damage your health. If you have allergies or respiratory issues make sure to keep your home clean and free of mold growth.
How to Prevent Mold Growth in the Summer?
- If you have a swimming pool, check your water chemistry regularly.
- Keep your clothes dryer vented to the outside. If it vents into an attic or other occupied space, have it sealed off by a professional.
- Dry any clothes that are wet as quickly as possible after washing them. Make sure dryer lint is cleaned out and your machine’s exhaust duct is free of any obstructions.
- Don’t use humidifiers if you’re suffering from allergies, asthma or sinus problems (they can actually make these conditions worse).
- Seek medical attention if you notice unusual respiratory issues – even mild ones – that don’t seem to go away.
Mold Facts
- Mold spores are everywhere, even in the air you breathe.
- Mold can grow on almost anything when moisture is present.
- There are more than 100,000 species of mold; all molds have the potential to cause health problems. Even if your home doesn’t look dirty – it may be a haven for mold.
Best Way To Get Rid of Mold?
The most effective way to rid of mold from your home is with 24/7 professional help. You can call Same Day Restoration in San Diego for an estimate at 858-905-5711. All our services are complete and 100% guaranteed, so you know you’re in good hands when you trust us with your needs.
Our mission is to provide victims of disasters with the most professional and timely restoration service, with uncompromised quality, outstanding customer service, and integrity.
