Kitchen & Bath Business March/April 2024 - 19

systems that provide proper levels of ventilation, fi ltration/purifi cation and
(de)humdifi cation are essential, coupled with strategies for proper off -gassing,
especially for new appliances. Electric induction/convection stove tops and
ovens are safer alternatives.
HVAC systems, range hoods and bathroom fans all play a part in a successful
air strategy. During planning stages, all exhaust fans must be vented
directly to the exterior. Always run vents when cooking, never block vents
and properly maintain appliances by servicing as required. Filters used to
purify air must be right-sized, using the appropriate MERV-rated fi lter
that aligns with the system. With a MERV rating of 11 or higher, smaller
particulate matter, such as pollen, mold, most bacteria and pet dander, is
removed from the air. Increasing to a rating of 13 will include all bacteria
and virus carriers.
Air Strategies. Off -gassing strategies, including ceiling fans, open windows
and HEPA-fi lter portable air purifi ers, may be necessary when leaks
are detected; new products are introduced to the home, such as cabinetry,
fl ooring and furnishings; and fi nishes are added, such as paints and stains.
Without the proper level of humidifi cation, mold thrives and bacteria and
viruses are more diffi cult to control. Integrating smart-home humidifi cation
monitors helps control humidity.
Water Quality. Another consumer concern is water conservation
and quality; poor water quality can contribute to long-term health risks.
Personal, point-of-use or refrigerator purifi cation devices in the kitchen
help reduce contaminants in tap water. A whole-home purifi cation system
fi lters all interior water sources. Since skin is the largest human organ, and it
absorbs toxins, WHPS provide healthier bathing
and laundry alternatives.
Holistic Approach. Implementing holistic
thinking with wellness modeling at the beginning
of the design process leads to healthier
outcomes for the occupant. A holistic approach
to health in the home requires a strategy
based on the interconnection of many parts.
Th ird-party certifi cations for homes and building
products and health and wellness standards
help developers, architects, builders and interior
designers understand the holistic approach
through proper education, which leads to safer
and healthier living environments. Th is holistic
approach considers the occupant needs, home
location, climate, mechanical systems and wellness
modeling.
Designing and building safer and healthier
homes using wellness modeling helps make
healthier living environments achievable. Do
you measure up?
By Jillian Pritchard Cooke, founder of Wellness
Within Your Walls, a third-party certification
program, wellnesswithinyourwalls.com
http://www.wellnesswithinyourwalls.com http://www.kingstonbrass.com http://www.kingstonbrass.com
Kitchen & Bath Business March/April 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Kitchen & Bath Business March/April 2024
