Hey everyone! I've noticed some dark brown or black staining on the ceiling around my air vent, and I'm worried it might be black mold. Can anyone help me identify what might be causing this? I'd love to know how to tackle the issue, whether it is mold or something else. I've attached a photo for reference!
3 Answers
It could be mold, but don't rule out dust buildup either. Either way, it's definitely time for some cleaning around there! Clear it out and see if that helps.
It sounds like you might be dealing with condensation due to air leaks. When the cold air meets the humid air, it can lead to mildew forming over time. I'd suggest pulling off the register and sealing any gaps between the drywall and the register boot. Keep an eye on it after that, and it should help!
It is pretty humid here, and I try to keep the house cool. Thanks for the tip!
Another possibility is that you might be looking at soot from a poorly tuned furnace. This could lead to dangerous CO2 levels, so it’s something to be cautious about. You can tell the difference between soot and mold using a paper towel—try it out!

Are you talking about cleaning just around the vents or the whole area? I recently changed my filter.