Healthy Home Improvements
The connection between your health and the building you live in has been extensively studied since the 1980s when “sick building syndrome” was identified. Consider these improvements to help ensure that your home promotes your health:
Whole-House Air Filter
In the last 10 years, asthma cases have risen 50% worldwide. Research shows that indoor air can be more polluted than city smog. An efficient way to clean the air is through a forced-air heating or central air-conditioning system. Types of filters include disposable HEPA filters, electronic “ionizing” filters and UV filters that kill air-borne bacteria.
House Water Filter
Many people want extra-clean drinking water, while others simply don’t like the taste of tap water. Filtration can remove chlorine and other unwanted substances. Installed under the sink, a plumbed-in water filtration system connects directly to an existing water pipe. Such a system offers convenience, though you may still need to change the filter cartridge regularly.
Bottled water isn’t necessarily healthier. Studies have shown that many brands of bottled water are no better than tap water. If you want to be sure of your water, use a filtration system.
Low-Emission Paint
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are found in many paints and household finishes. They can include formaldehyde, heavy metals such as mercury, or other toxins. Using paints and other finishes with low or no VOCs can help people with allergies and sensitivities breathe easier.
If you add these health-promoting features to your home, you’ll want to call attention to them when you decide to sell. Your “healthy” home may stand out from the competition so you receive a higher price.
