Asheville AC: Mountain Mold Crashing Youth Livers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

February 12, 2026

The musty smell hits you first, a damp, earthy odor that clings to the back of your throat. Then comes the fatigue, the persistent headaches, and maybe even a nagging cough that just won’t quit. You’ve lived in Asheville for years, drawn by the mountain air and vibrant arts scene, but lately, something feels…off. Could it be mold? And could that mold be affecting your liver? It’s a question more and more Asheville residents are asking, and the answer, unfortunately, isn’t always straightforward.

Asheville’s unique climate, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold. The high humidity, coupled with older homes and the widespread use of air conditioning, can lead to a hidden health crisis lurking within your walls. While a direct, definitive link between mold exposure and liver damage is still under investigation, the potential for mycotoxins produced by certain molds to impact liver function is a serious concern.

Let’s be clear: not all mold is created equal. Some molds are relatively harmless, while others produce mycotoxins, toxic substances that can cause a range of health problems. These mycotoxins can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin, potentially leading to inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can impact the liver.

So, how do you know if you have a mold problem in your Asheville home, and what can you do about it?

First, identification is key. Look for visible signs of mold growth: discoloration on walls, ceilings, or around windows. Common culprits in Asheville include Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), Aspergillus, and Penicillium. These often thrive in damp areas, especially around AC units where condensation can accumulate. Don’t rely solely on visual inspection; mold can hide behind walls or under flooring. A professional mold inspection is crucial, especially if you suspect a hidden problem or are experiencing health issues.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preliminary mold identification:

Visual Inspection: Check bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and areas around windows and pipes for visible mold growth. Look for discoloration, staining, or fuzzy patches.
Smell Test: A musty or earthy odor can indicate mold, even if you can’t see it.
Moisture Detection: Use a moisture meter to check for elevated moisture levels in walls, floors, and ceilings. Anything above 16% is a red flag.
Documentation: Take photos and notes of any suspected mold growth, including the location, appearance, and any associated odors.
Professional Testing: If you suspect mold, especially if you’re experiencing health problems, hire a certified mold inspector to conduct air and surface sampling.

Now, let’s talk about remediation. This isn’t a DIY project, especially for larger infestations or toxic molds. Improper cleaning can actually spread mold spores, making the problem worse. A professional mold remediation company will use specialized equipment and techniques to safely remove the mold and address the underlying moisture problem.

Here’s what a professional mold remediation process typically involves:

Containment: Sealing off the affected area to prevent the spread of mold spores.
Air Filtration: Using HEPA air scrubbers to remove mold spores from the air.
Mold Removal: Physically removing mold-infested materials, such as drywall, carpeting, and wood.
Cleaning and Disinfecting: Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with antimicrobial solutions.
Moisture Control: Addressing the source of moisture that caused the mold growth, such as leaks or condensation.
Post-Remediation Testing: Conducting air and surface sampling to ensure that the mold has been successfully removed.

For smaller, contained areas (less than 10 square feet), you might be able to handle it yourself, but proceed with caution. Wear appropriate protective gear (gloves, mask, eye protection), use a mold-killing cleaner, and ensure proper ventilation. Remember, addressing the moisture source is crucial to prevent recurrence.

Asheville’s mountain climate presents unique challenges for mold remediation. The high humidity and frequent temperature fluctuations can make it difficult to control moisture levels. Proper ventilation, dehumidifiers, and well-maintained HVAC systems are essential. Consider investing in a whole-house dehumidifier, especially if you live in an older home with poor ventilation.

Air purification is another important tool in the fight against mold. HEPA filters can remove mold spores from the air, but they won’t address the underlying problem. Look for air purifiers specifically designed for mold removal, and make sure they’re appropriately sized for the space.

What about the potential link between mold and liver issues? While more research is needed, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, consult a doctor. Be sure to mention your concerns about mold exposure.

If you suspect that your health problems are related to mold exposure in your rental property, you may have legal recourse. North Carolina law requires landlords to maintain a safe and habitable living environment. If your landlord has failed to address a known mold problem, you may be able to break your lease, withhold rent (with proper legal guidance), or even sue for damages.

Here’s what you need to know about your rights as a renter in North Carolina:

Landlord’s Duty: Landlords have a legal obligation to maintain a safe and habitable living environment, which includes addressing mold problems.
Notice Requirement: You must notify your landlord in writing about the mold problem and give them a reasonable amount of time to address it.
Documentation: Keep detailed records of all communication with your landlord, including dates, times, and the content of the conversations.
Legal Options: If your landlord fails to address the mold problem, you may have legal options, such as breaking your lease, withholding rent (with proper legal guidance), or suing for damages.
Retaliation: Landlords cannot retaliate against you for reporting a mold problem.

Homeowners also have legal options if they’ve been harmed by negligent contractors or builders who failed to properly address moisture problems or used substandard materials. Consult with an attorney specializing in construction defects to explore your options.

Navigating the complexities of mold exposure and its potential health effects can be overwhelming. Here are some resources for Asheville residents:

Buncombe County Health Department: Provides information on mold prevention and remediation.
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services: Offers resources on indoor air quality and mold-related health issues.
National Center for Healthy Housing: Provides information on mold prevention and remediation.
Local Attorneys: Consult with an attorney specializing in environmental law or landlord-tenant law.
Certified Mold Inspectors and Remediators: Ensure they are licensed and insured.

Don’t ignore the signs. If you suspect mold in your Asheville home, take action. Protect your health, your family, and your investment. The mountain air should be clean and refreshing, not a source of hidden danger.