Spending more time indoors has a lot of people concerned about the condition of their living spaces and their impact on health and wellness. Although currently being at home may be the safest bet, it can also be an incubator for disaster.
While some precautions are apparent, like regularly cleaning and sanitizing your home, others are more conspicuous. Below are some of the hidden dangers in the house and practical solutions for improvement.
Ventilation Systems
The ventilation system is responsible for filtering and circulating air throughout the house. It gets rid of the dust, bacteria, dander, and allergens, providing you with clean, fresh air. Unfortunately, most people don’t think about this essential household system.
Over time, contaminants build-up, reducing indoor air quality. Consequently, it can result in weakened immune systems, respiratory problems, and even an increased fire risk.
If the ventilation system is going to continue performing efficiently, it must be appropriately maintained. That includes changing the filters and cleaning the vents periodically. Changing the filters is relatively easy and can be done without assistance. However, hiring an HVAC professional is advised to clean the ventilation system every few years.
Insulation
Home insulation is often overlooked; however, its purpose is crucial to your health and wellness. Insulation serves as a thermal barrier that helps to keep your residence warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
As insulation is installed in the walls of a property, it’s often exposed to moisture, dirt, and sunlight, which cause it to deteriorate over time. Poor insulation can result in higher energy bills, mold and bacteria buildup, leaks, and pest infestations.
If you’ve noticed that you can’t regulate the temperature in your house, increased allergy and asthma issues, pest problems, or leaks, it may be time to replace your insulation. A simple online search for Phoenix insulation installation (or whichever city you reside in) can route you to service providers in the area that will inspect, remove, and install new insulation.
Roofing Systems
The roof is one of the most essential parts of the home. Its role is to provide whole-house protection from the sun, wind, rain, snow, and other weather elements.
When a roofing system is working correctly, it provides insulation from the heat and cold, while precipitation rolls off the roof, into the gutters, and away from the property. If your roof is damaged or outdated, it increases the likelihood of leaks, water damage, mold, poor temperature control, and foundation issues.
You can eliminate this potential health and safety risk by having your roof inspected and cleaning your gutters at least twice a year. If your roof is damaged or more than 12 years old, you should hire roofers to make essential repairs or install a new roof.
Plumbing Leaks
The plumbing system has two main functions; routing clean water in and getting rid of wastewater. The water flows through pipes that run throughout the house. These pipes deteriorate due to water acidity, fluid temperature, and general wear and tear.
While some leaks are easy to spot, others can occur in the crevices of your home that you can’t see. Unresolved leaks can cause property damage and mold development.
If you notice a higher water bill, stains on the ceiling, lower water pressure, damaged flooring, or sagging ceilings, it’s time to have an expert inspect your plumbing. You should also have your plumbing inspected at least once a year to check for signs of corrosion or other damage.
When the health and safety of the general public are at risk, having a safe and healthy environment to reside is essential. While you’re likely sticking to regular cleaning schedules as a means of keeping your loved ones safe, you mustn’t forget the hidden dangers in your home.
Make a point to evaluate and tackle each area listed above to ensure that you and your family remain happy and healthy.