How Does Hot Weather Contribute to Mold & Poor Air Quality

Posted in Mold, on July 18, 2023

Mold can grow year-round in the air-conditioned environments of our homes, but you might have noticed that it grows particularly well during the summer months. At SafeAir, we perform more air quality testing in Toronto during the summer and autumn because the heat and humidity that descends on Southern Ontario creates the ideal conditions for mold growth. Hidden mold infestations make mold testing in Toronto crucial to identifying and eliminating this home and health-damaging problem. Continue reading to learn about the four major causes of mold growth during the summer. 

Increased Humidity

Warm air holds more moisture than cool air — it’s why our skin and eyes feel dry and itchy during the winter months when the air hold little moisture. But in the summer (especially July!) the heat increases and so does the amount of water in the air. Vaporized water can move around your home in ways solid water can’t. Because heat rises, water can suddenly move from the ground floor to upper levels — and re-solidify when it gets there. Reducing indoor humidity using a dehumidifier or air conditioner can reduce this excess moisture contributing to mold. We recommend getting an inexpensive humidity monitor from the hardware store to self-monitor. 

Poor Ventilation

Another uncomfortable aspect of summer is when the hot humid air doesn’t move — there’s no airflow. Outdoors is one thing, but leaving all this airborne moisture to stagnate in our homes can lead to walls, floors, furniture and carpets becoming damp and saturated with moisture. 

Ventilation is critical to preventing mold growth indoors. Increasing airflow is as easy as opening windows when the temperature has eased or using fans to move air around!

Broken A/C Systems

Your air conditioner does double duty as a dehumidifier, wicking moisture from the air and cooling it simultaneously. A broken A/C unit can let heat and humidity build up in your home, raising your risk of mold growth. If you can’t fix it, see if you have a fan on your furnace that can help circulate air or use a dehumidifier in spaces like bedrooms and basements. 

Condensation

Airborne moisture becomes condensation when two different temperatures meet — think of a sweaty, cold glass of water or windowpanes during the winter. Condensation is a common cause of indoor mold growth, especially around doors, windows, and attics. 

How SafeAir Can Help You Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

During air quality testing in Toronto, SafeAir measures indoor humidity and ventilation levels and is alert to physical evidence of problems like condensation. Good indoor air quality isn’t just about spores or other indoor pollutants but about how your home feels to be in as well — for example, a room with high humidity isn’t comfortable to sleep in!

Mold testing in Toronto is a safe and reliable way to get a snapshot of your home’s overall health and safety. It detects spores, identifies areas at risk of mold growth from condensation or other problems, and can alert you to invisible infestations.

Contact SafeAir to book your mold testing or environmental assessment today!