As much as we enjoy coming home each day to enjoy relaxing in our living space, it is important to keep in mind that the comforts we hold most dear might actually be making us sick. Although we rely on the safety and well-being of home, be sure to check these three critical ways in which home life might be making you sick.
Water Supply
If you use well water, it is a good idea to have the county health department check your water or buy a dipstick gauge from a home supply store. You might be surprised to discover that your seemingly safe water supply is teeming with chemicals, like fertilizers and herbicides from nearby farms. Bacteria from various diseases like e coli is another concern. You may even find that your water is carrying contaminants from damaged or compromised pipes. If you find out your water is contaminated, you can have it treated with an in-home purification system or install a water faucet filter to catch debris and particles.
HVAC System
While it is soothing to turn up the heat in winter or switch on the air conditioner when it’s warm outside, you will want to have your HVAC system inspected and serviced annually by a company like Classic Air and Heating near you to ensure it is working properly and safely. For example, your furnace may be spewing carbon monoxide, which is a lethal odorless, colorless gas that can be fatal if it goes undetected at high amounts. The air conditioner should be checked for mold and bacteria, which can cause respiratory problems or induce asthmatic flare-ups. The ventilation system can also be inspected to ensure clean airways throughout your home.
Patio or Porch
Relaxing on an outdoor porch or patio is great for distressing and enjoying fresh air. However, if either has been recently built and left unpainted, make sure the wood is safe for exposure and touch, as some types have concerning levels of arsenic. For older painted wooden structures, lead may pose a risk for toddlers or pets who chew the paint. Fortunately, lead is no longer used in current paint products. Pesticides sprayed to destroy or deflect flying insect nests can be hazardous to humans, so if you have sprayed recently, give it time to dissipate before returning to the relaxing outdoor lounging area.
Home should be our ultimate refuge, and often it is. But for maximum health and safety, check out these aspects of your house to address unsuspected issues that can make you sick over time.
