Cooperative Living July 2014 - 14

CURRENTS
Your Home and Your Health by Karen Lokensgard, Contributing Writer
B
ecoming energy efficient isn't just about
taking care of the planet - it can impact the
health and safety of your whole family.
Putting off basic maintenance of your home could
become hazardous and literally make someone
sick. Here are a few areas to keep an eye on
and address with a professional, should the time
come.
CLEAR THE AIR
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation
of America, one in eight Americans will be diagnosed
with asthma during their lifetime, and an
estimated 50 million Americans suffer from allergies.
Both of these conditions can be worsened
by indoor air contaminants. The simplest way to
keep your air clean is to change your air filters
monthly. Keep a few extra filters on hand for convenience
and skip the monthly home-store run.
DUST STANDS FOR DO U SEE THIS?!
If you're seeing more dust (or dust bunnies)
than usual, it may simply be another reminder to
change your air filter. But it may also signal a leak
or airflow problem with your air ducts. High energy
bills in summer can mean air leaks somewhere
in your home, too. Windows and air ducts
could be the cause, but it may also be an inefficient
or incorrectly installed air conditioner.
KEEPING WARM AIR IN
Getting cold doesn't actually make you sick,
but it can prevent you from getting better, as your
body has to work harder to keep you warm. This
is the best reason to be sure your heating and air
conditioning system is running well, and your insulation
is doing its job. If you feel drafts or cold
spots, check for air leaks around windows and
doors. Big icicles and ice dams that form in the
winter are also signs of air leaks and improper insulation
in your roof. Ice dams can damage your
home and icicles can be dangerous when falling,
so it's important to recognize the cause and take
the proper actions to prevent them from forming.
STAYING DRY
Dampness is associated with a 30- to 50-percent
increase in the number of respiratory and
asthma-related health problems, including upper
respiratory tract ailments, coughing and wheezing.
Often, dampness in a basement is caused by
moisture migrating through the foundation. Moisture
spots in walls could signal plumbing leaks.
And condensation in your windows almost always
means inefficient
windows. These
can all cause one of
the worst problems
known to homeowners:
mold.
OH NO, MOLD
Mold is certainly
hard on your house. It
can lead to wood rot,
structural damage,
peeling paint, and a
variety of other issues. But what it can do to the
body is even worse. Infants may develop chronic
respiratory problems. Older people and those
with chronic illness or weakened immune systems
can have a severe respiratory reaction. If you see
or suspect mold anywhere in your house, address
it immediately with a professional.
Keeping your home energy-efficient and
running well is one easy way to keep your family
safe and healthy indoors. And the savings
you'll enjoy over the years will be nothing to
sneeze at. 
Sources: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of
America (www.aafa.org); www.homeenergy.org.
12
Cooperative Living/July 2014
GALINAST/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK
http://www.aafa.org http://www.homeenergy.org
Cooperative Living July 2014

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