While mold overgrowths happen all year round, they tend to worsen in the summer. Research shows that mold spores are more likely to germinate and grow in warm, humid environments – which is exactly what summertime weather conditions are like. Not only that, but air conditioning units can create the perfect environment for mold to thrive in. Air conditioning units circulate moist air, which can cause condensation to form on surfaces – and this is where mold loves to grow. 
Around the states, the likelihood of mold overgrowth increases as we move to the warmer months. In the past year alone, over 26,000 mold-related complaints were made to the EPA – most of which were made in July and August. The problem is worse amongst people who love to take a summer vacation. While you’re away from home, the air conditioning is likely to stay on – and this can create the perfect environment for mold to grow. 
Summer is also a time of constant moisture. During the summer months, the moisture levels in the air are much higher than usual. This increased moisture provides mold with the perfect conditions to grow and spread. When combined with poor ventilation, this can create a recipe for disaster. 
So what can you do to prevent mold overgrowth in your home?  
The first step is to keep your indoor humidity levels low. During the summer months, aim for a relative humidity level of 30-50%. You can monitor your indoor humidity levels with a hygrometer – and some smart thermostats will do this for you. Another way to prevent mold is to keep your AC unit clean and well-maintained. Your AC unit is one of the most important appliances in your home, especially during the summer. Not only does it keep your home cool and comfortable, but it also helps to remove humidity from the air. When mold spores are present in high levels of humidity, they have the potential to grow and spread quickly. For this reason, it’s important to take care of your AC unit and ensure it’s running properly. Here are a few tips on how to do so: 
-Check the air filter monthly and replace it if necessary. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to. 
-Keep the area around your AC unit clean and free of debris. This will help to ensure proper airflow and prevent the unit from overworking. 
-Have your AC unit regularly serviced by a professional. This will help keep it running efficiently and prevent any major issues from developing. 
Installing a dehumidifier is also a great way to prevent mold overgrowth in summer. A dehumidifier works by removing moisture from the air, which can help keep your indoor humidity levels in check. Studies have shown that a dehumidifier can reduce moisture in your home by up to 50%. 
While dehumidifiers can help control mold growth by reducing moisture in the air, they need to be properly maintained for them to work effectively. Be sure to drain the water from the dehumidifier daily and clean the filter monthly. You should also keep the humidity level in your home below 60% to prevent mold growth. 
One of the best ways to ensure that you don’t have to deal with mold again is to hire a professional mold remediation company. Most people misunderstand that the only time you need to talk with a mold remediation company is when you spot an active mold overgrowth. But on the contrary, mold remediation companies also offer mold prevention services. Depending on the company, this might include anything from setting up a mold prevention plan to performing regular mold inspections. But regardless of what services the company avails of, you need to ensure that you select a reputable company. 
One of the best ways to tackle mold is to prevent it from happening. However, that might not be possible in many cases. Many homeowners spot mold when it’s too late and already have an overgrowth. If you find yourself in this situation, the best thing you can do is to take immediate action. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it will be to get rid of mold. 
If you’re concerned about mold in your home, you can do a few things to prevent it from growing. Keep your indoor humidity levels low, clean your AC unit regularly, and install a dehumidifier. You should also hire a professional mold remediation company to help prevent and remove mold growth in your home. A professional mold remediation company has the experience and expertise to help you get rid of mold. Avoid DIY mold removal methods, as these can often worsen the problem.