As a home ages, the health and safety risks that it poses increase. Keeping your home healthy isn’t difficult, but it is important to monitor a few things. Here are a few tips to keep your home healthy and safe.
1. Test for Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that builds up in homes and is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, second only to smoking. Tests are often performed before the purchase of a home but they can be done at any time.
Radon can only be detected with specialized testing equipment, so you can’t rely on your senses. If you don’t know when your home was last tested, hire a professional to perform a test and take action to mitigate the gas if levels are high.
2. Set up Smoke and CO Detectors to Make Your Home Healthy and Safe
Smoke detectors will alert you if a fire starts in your home. Install a unit in each bedroom, the kitchen, garage, and attic. Not only will you be promoting a healthy and safe home, but you will also be complying with local laws requiring their use.
Carbon monoxide (or CO) can also be deadly. For optimal safety, install both smoke and CO detectors throughout the home, following all the recommended guidelines for placement.
3. Eliminate VOCs
Volatile organic compounds are toxic chemicals that are found in everyday items, such as household cleaners, paint, and furniture materials. Keep these materials away from your home in outside storage areas. If possible, choose non-toxic items that do not have VOCs.
4. Make Your Home Healthy and Safe by Cleaning
There are many particles contaminating the air in your home, like dust, pet dander, and pollen. If these issues are persistent or extreme, or you have a family member with allergies or respiratory problems, purchase an air purifier.
Cleaning thoroughly will also help reduce airborne pollutants. Conduct frequent inspections of the HVAC filter, and replace it if it’s old or dirty.
You may already be following some of these tips. If you are not, make some changes to your routine to avoid these common problems. Addressing your home’s health will have the added benefit of keeping you and your family healthy.
Home Support Property Inspections provides home inspection services, including radon testing, to Maryland and DC. Contact us to request an appointment.