Your Champaign County home should be a place of comfort, but for some it becomes the opposite – a source of illness. Many factors can turn a house into an unhealthy environment that makes its inhabitants sick. Here are some the most common ways your own home could be harming your health.
Is the Humidity Too High?
High humidity creates an ideal environment for mold growth. When indoor humidity exceeds 60%, mold can proliferate behind walls and potentially lead to health issues like chronic sinus problems and nervous system damage.
A humid house can promote dust mite infestations, leading to health issues like sleep disturbances, allergies, and gastrointestinal problems.
On the other hand, if your home is not humid enough, with humidity below 40%, it can cause respiratory irritation.
To ensure proper humidity levels, use a humidity monitor to keep the level between 40-60%. Increase ventilation by opening windows, running fan vents when cooking or showering, and using a dehumidifier if the air becomes too damp.
Excessive Dust
Cleaning your house is more than just an aesthetic issue – it’s also important for your health. Dust in your home can cause dust mites that irritate eyes and nasal passages, so keeping surfaces dust-free helps ensure your home is free of these irritants.
Dust mites can overtax your immune system and gradually undermine it. Dust can also gather outdoor pollutants like pesticides and herbicides, which are neurotoxic.
To eliminate excess dust, vacuum frequently with a clean filter. Also consider adding a HEPA filter to your HVAC system, removing shoes inside, washing bedding, drapes, and stuffed animals often.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Your Champaign home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can make you sick by spreading mold and bacteria throughout the house. When the air conditioner cools your home, condensation builds up inside the ducts, allowing mold and bacteria to grow. This microbial contamination circulating through the ducts can trigger coughing, allergies, asthma attacks, and headaches.
To avoid this issue, have your air ducts professionally cleaned every few years and service your heating system regularly. Servicing your heating system allows it to operate more cleanly and efficiently.
Damp Areas
Damp areas like basements and bathrooms can harbor mold, mildew, and bacteria that contribute to “sick building syndrome” and worsen health. Moisture and condensation anywhere in a home risks mold growth and related illnesses.
Check the exterior of your home for any cracks, leaks, or openings, and ensure your gutters direct water away from the house. Also, inspect drains and plumbing fixtures regularly. Monitor indoor humidity levels as well, as high humidity can signal condensation problems.
Lack of Ventilation
Many people seal their homes up tightly, which saves on their energy bills. However, indoor air is probably dirtier than outdoor air, and your home needs some ventilation. You can open your windows and doors occasionally when the weather allows. You can also use fan vents that will pull air outside as you cook or bathe, and mechanical ventilation can be facilitated by installing an air-to-air heat exchange.
Toxic Products
The products used inside your home may contain chemicals that can make you sick. Harmful indoor pollutants can come from carpeting, manufactured wood, upholstery, and cleaning supplies. Carefully read product labels to avoid or limit exposure to toxic chemicals brought into your living space.
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