Winter is right around the corner! From wearing thicker clothes to turning on the heat, winter is prime time for finding ways to stay warm and enjoy the season. While turning on the heater can seem like the perfect solution to the winter bite; you should be aware that it may also trigger mold growth. But can we use our heater without worrying about mold? In order to answer that, we need to learn more about mold and its connection to winter.
Does Turning on the Heat During Winter Affect Mold Growth?
At first glance, you might believe that mold only thrives during warm and humid seasons. However, it is fairly common for mold to grow even when the temperatures drop significantly. In fact, the wet season that happens during winter can promote mold growth, mostly due to the amount of moisture caused by melting ice and snow.
Additionally, when moisture travels through the air and reaches your kitchen or bathroom, it might condense due to your HVAC system and cause moisture, which accelerates the growth of mold. If that happens, the mold will slowly consume the building materials it sits on, causing damage. Therefore, it’s safe to say that turning on the heat has the potential to trigger mold growth.
What Can I Do About It?
Fortunately, you don’t have to live in fear of mold, as there are some ways you can prevent its growth all while enjoying the conveniences and comfortability of the heater. Let’s check them out!
Reduce Your Home’s Humidity Levels
Whenever you turn on your heater, you can end up increasing the humidity levels of your home. That can cause even more moisture, which can seep through and accelerate the growth of mold. However, dehumidifiers are all it takes to reduce the humidity levels of your home and prevent mold. Not only that but since dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, your home will feel warmer and drier, even during winter. So, make sure to use them whenever you want to turn on the heater.
Check Your Air Ducts Before Using the HVAC System
Lastly, you need to keep in mind that mold spores can spread and grow by traveling through your HVAC system. Therefore, before you switch on the heater, make sure to clean your filters and air ducts.
Increase Air Circulation
Believe it or not something as simple as taking a long, hot shower can increase the amount of moisture in your home. And since mold thrives in humid environments, that can harm your home’s walls. As a result, you need to increase air circulation by using exhaust fans when cooking or showering. You can also use them when you turn on the heat to improve air circulation and prevent moisture.
Final Thoughts
In the end, as long as you do proper inspections and maintenance, you will be able to turn on the heat without worrying about mold. However, if you already suspect a mold infestation, you need to act quickly and call Mold Solutions. Our professionals are able to inspect, find and remediate mold, regardless of its severity. And best of all, we do it in a timely manner, so you can enjoy spending time with your family and friends during winter.
