Promote Wellness at Home
It pays off to have a healthy home because you’ll face fewer medical expenses and your family members will feel better. Here are 5 ways to promote wellness at home.
Filter Drinking Water
Most people drink water straight out of the tap because it is more affordable than buying bottled water, and it produces less waste. However, you can’t count on your home’s tap water to be free of unhealthy contaminants. Most municipalities add chlorine and fluoride to water, which may have some negative health effects. There may also be sediment, pharmaceutical residue, herbicides and pesticides, volatile organic compounds, and bacteria in water from a public source or a well. Well water may also contain radon, which is known to cause cancer. Use a water filter to provide pure water for your family to drink. There are many different types of water filters, so find out what contaminants you need to remove before purchasing one. Have a home water test performed to learn about your home’s water quality.
Test for Radon
Radon is a radioactive element that can be present in well water, but more commonly it is in your home’s indoor air. This gas forms underground and moves upward, seeping into the lower levels of your home. Because it is the second-highest cause of lung cancer after smoking, it is important for every home to be tested for radon levels. Levels of 4 pCi/L or higher are dangerous to live with and need to be addressed. Install a radon mitigation system to reduce the levels, and continue to test periodically.
Set Up a Home Gym to Promote Wellness at Home
Your family members are more likely to stay active and get regular exercise if you provide them with the tools to do so at home. Set up a home gym in a spare room or basement. Add a weight bench, exercise bike, or even just an open space with some free weights and a mat. When people don’t need to go anywhere to work out, they are more likely to make it a habit.
Change Air Filters
Clogged, dirty HVAC filters cause a variety of problems. First, they hinder the efficiency of the HVAC system. Perhaps more importantly, they cause breathing problems and allergies by sending dust and allergens through the indoor air. Set a reminder on your calendar to change the HVAC filter every 30-90 days, as instructed by the manufacturer.
Manage Indoor Humidity
Humidity in the home shouldn’t exceed 50%. High levels of humidity contribute to mold growth, which is one of the most unhealthy household contaminants. Monitor humidity with a hygrometer and use a dehumidifier to keep the levels low.
Five Stars Home Inspection provides inspection services to the Greater Boston area, including testing for water and radon. Contact us to schedule an appointment.