Living in a healthier space is a top priority.
Creating a healthy home starts with evaluating what needs routine maintenance and what products can be replaced with eco-friendly alternatives. Here are some home improvement tips to make your living space a healthy home.
1. Clean, fresh and safe air
According to the EPA, the air inside your home can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside. Air filters in your heating and cooling system work by drawing out pollutants like dust and pet dander. When they get dirty it makes it harder for the system to work efficiently.
Routinely check your air filters for accumulated dirt and dust. Depending on what type of filter you need, HEPA filters can be replaced for as little as $25. Be sure to change the filter monthly.
A simple project you should is check that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home are working properly. Heating your home during the winter increases the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Checking the detectors around your home should be done routinely, especially during cold weather months.
2. Pure water
Water filters are a popular health-conscious home upgrade that can fit a range of budgets. The most popular types of water filtration are filtered pitchers that can start at $20. There are also under-the-sink, on-the-counter and faucet-mounted filtration system alternatives, depending on how large of an upgrade you want.
Water leak detection devices are another popular home improvement. These systems can notify you when a leak is detected and can shut off the water system if a major problem is found. Some insurance companies offer discounts for having this type of system. Be sure to check with your home owners insurance company.
3. Home supplies that are great at their jobs and easy on the environment
Over the years many consumers have been concerned about the ingredients found in conventional cleaning products, paints, flooring and building materials. Many have decided to replace them with products that are environmentally friendly. Look for products that are biodegradable and sourced from renewable resources instead of petroleum. Be wary of cleaners that claim to be all-natural without clearly identifying their environmental benefits.
When painting, look for options that are free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or are Green Seal or GreenGuard certified. If you are wanting to replace appliances, be sure to purchase LEED certified or Energy Star rated. These products are more sustainable and reduce energy usage. You may also qualify for a green homeowner discount through your insurance company for having these appliances in your home.
Replacing a floor? Look for eco-friendly options such as unfinished hardwood, stone or concrete, and carpets made of natural fibers. Make sure to use toxic-free adhesives to reduce the amount of chemicals in your home.
If you are replacing drywall or insulation, look for GreenGuard certified materials to avoid toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde or acetaldehyde that are commonly found in these materials.
Home improvements and routine maintenance can create a healthier living environment. This green trend can also be good for your wallet, as insurance companies may offer green home discounts.