Oklahomans are no strangers to triple digit temperatures during the summer months and at Sooner Cleaning + Restoration, we’re extremely familiar with the heat and humidity’s ability to enhance mold growth. But we hope you don’t let mold ruin your summer – we’re dedicated to creating a healthy environment for you and your loved ones.
Why Mold Thrives in Summer
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Mold spores thrive in moist environments, which are more common in the summer heat. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says warm air has more water vapor or moisture than cold air (NOAA).
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According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, "Mold can grow on virtually any organic substance as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet and foods" (US EPA). So nowhere is safe when the AC can’t keep up — which Oklahomans know as an all too common occurrence!
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Air conditioning units extract water from the air and typically direct it to a drain. However, poorly maintained or older units may leak into basements and crawl spaces, creating a damp environment perfect for mold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that "indoor mold can be prevented by controlling moisture levels".
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When it's hot outside and cool inside, condensation can form around windowsills. Areas where condensation is common, such as windows and around air ducts, can provide a breeding ground for mold. One way to reduce the potential for condensation is by adding insulation.
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Mold spores thrive in temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F. The EPA notes that reducing indoor humidity to 30-60% helps decrease mold growth (US EPA).
Identifying Mold in Your Home
If your home starts to smell musty in this summer heat, you might already have mold! Even if you think your home is safe, the hot and humid Oklahoma summers create perfect conditions for mold spores to multiply.
Steps to Take:
Inspect Regularly: Check areas prone to moisture, such as basements, crawl spaces and around windows. Look for discoloration or a musty odor.
Use Dehumidifiers: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-60% to deter mold growth.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Vent bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside.
Don’t Delay: If you discover mold, clean it immediately and fix any water problems to prevent recurrence.
Get Professional Help
Call Sooner Cleaning + Restoration at 405-329-8999 for a mold inspection and consultation. Our certified team will work closely with local biologists to identify the source of mold and provide the help you need to keep your home safe and healthy. We even offer a 100% guarantee – if our biologist still finds mold after we complete remediation services, we’ll keep treating until it’s gone.
Remember, dealing with mold in a timely manner can prevent serious health issues and property damage, so if you have any suspicions, call us today!
This blog post uses valuable information from the EPA, CDC and NOAA on mold prevention and control. You can find more details about mold management on the EPA's mold page and the CDC's mold information.