As a homeowner, it is important to be proactive in managing your family’s health and wellness. It is no secret that the environment you live in has an impact on your overall well-being. Luckily, there are several things homeowners can do to promote wellness at home. This article looks at some of the best tips for creating a healthy home environment.
1. Test Your Home for Radon
According to the EPA, radon gas is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers throughout the United States. Because radon has no taste or smell, the only way to determine if your home has elevated levels is to conduct a test.
DIY radon testing kits can be inaccurate, so hiring a qualified professional is the best option. If high levels are discovered, install a mitigation system to reduce the amount of the gas in your living spaces.
2. Check for Mold
Mold can lead to health problems, from mild allergic reactions to serious respiratory illnesses. The best way to determine if you have a mold problem is to inspect your home visually. You may also notice a damp, musty odor, which is likely to be mold.
Areas that are prone to mold growth include bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. If you do find mold, take steps to remove it right away. If mold is a constant problem, contact a specialist to help you mitigate the issue.
3. Filter Tap Water to Promote Wellness at Home
If you’re not already doing so, start filtering your tap water. Water filtration systems are easy to install; they can be added to your main water line or attached to specific taps. Point-of-use systems are a great option if you don’t have access to the main water supply line.
You might feel that tap water is safe if it comes from a private well or your city, but either source can be contaminated. The water delivered through your faucets may contain contaminants such as chlorine, radon, lead, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and other hazardous chemicals.
The first step in obtaining clean drinking water is to have your home’s water tested. Once you know what chemicals are present, purchase and install the proper filter to eliminate them.
4. Change Air Filters in Your Home
Air filters need to be changed frequently, especially if you suffer from allergies or have pets. Dirty filters circulate pollutants back into the air you breathe and can cause a variety of respiratory problems, including asthma and allergy-like symptoms. Clogged filters also increase your energy costs by making the HVAC system work harder. Replace filters with Energy Star-certified filters to promote wellness at home and help reduce the power bill.
5. Promote Wellness at Home by Controlling Humidity Levels
Too much humidity fosters the growth of mold and mildew, while too little humidity can cause respiratory problems. A dehumidifier can be used to bring humidity levels within a healthy range, but you should also take steps to prevent moisture from building up in your home in the first place.
Ventilation is key, so make sure air can circulate freely throughout your home. Open windows and doors on dry days, and use fans to promote airflow both inside the house and in the attic and crawl space. In humid weather, use the bathroom and kitchen ventilation fans to help reduce the humidity that is generated from showering and cooking.
Home Support Property Inspections provides home inspection services, including radon testing, to Maryland and DC. Contact us to request an appointment.