Many Americans spend more time indoors during the fall and winter than at any other time of the year. This makes your home’s indoor environmental health more important than ever. As the temperature drops this winter and holidays and family gatherings happen at home, there are simple steps you can take to protect your family’s health and comfort.
Here are five ways to ensure that your home is healthier for the holiday season.
Install a Whole-House Water Filter
A whole-house water filter connects directly with the well or municipality water supply as water flows into your home. It filters the water directly, making the water purer without having to waste space in your refrigerator with a large filtering container. Before installation, it is critical to review the flow rate of your home. For small- to medium-sized apartments, a 10-gallon-per-minute water filter should be enough volume. For larger homes, those with more people or homes where multiple plumbing-related activities often happen simultaneously, a 20-gallon-per-minute whole-house water filter is generally needed.
Consider Anti-Mold Primer
Anti-mold primer attacks mold at the source and is a smart investment because mold exposure can lead to very serious respiratory illnesses. It is similar to regular primer, as paint can be added later as a separate coat. This is an important step because it is better to address mold early than to demolish an entire wall later.
Install an Indoor Air Quality Sensor
Indoor air quality sensors can be installed or mounted, often in a basement, to detect changes in radon, carbon dioxide, temperature, volatile organic compounds, air pressure and humidity. Knowing the quality of your air will help you to breathe easier, both literally and figuratively. Indoor air quality sensors are also often wi-fi enabled, allowing you to monitor the air quality in your home via a small phone or tablet.
Switch from a Dehumidifier to a Humidifier
As the fall and winter air gets drier, it makes more sense in many climates to put away the dehumidifier and use a humidifier instead. The amount of humidity in the air is often a personal preference; however, adjusting it can lead to better sleep and comfort. This simple switch is not needed in every climate across the country, but it can make a big impact in colder, drier climates.
Add an Integrated Pest Management Approach
As winter approaches, rodents and some insects may want to find their way into your home. Closing the entry points and securing the perimeter around your home is essential for keeping them out. In cases where sealing is difficult, such as attached homes or apartments, treatments can make a big difference. Not all chemicals are without risk, so “green” options should be used to protect children and pets from harmful pesticides or insecticides.
Whether you are a builder, remodeler, homeowner or renter, these steps provide simple ways to make your home healthier this winter. Connect your local home builders association HERE for more proactive steps to take to bring peace of mind throughout the season.