Test for Radon to Make Your Home Healthy and Safe
One of the often forgotten health concerns in houses is radon. Radon can’t be detected without a test because it is invisible and odorless. There aren’t any immediate symptoms from radon exposure, but it can cause serious long-term health effects.
Radon levels over 4 pCi/L have been linked to cases of lung cancer. In fact, radon kills over 21,000 Americans per year and is the second greatest cause of lung cancer after smoking cigarettes. To prevent this risk, have a professional test your home’s radon levels. Very low levels of radon in the home are normal and you’ll have peace of mind that your home’s air is safe to breathe.
Elevated levels can be lowered by installing a professional radon mitigation system that ventilates the gas out of the home and keeps more radon from accumulating. Once a mitigation system is in place, continue to have radon levels checked every year to verify that the system is working properly.
Maintain Smoke and CO Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for home safety, but they will only warn your family of danger if they are maintained properly. Smoke and CO detectors can be in a shared unit or installed as separate devices.
They both need to be tested every month. Even hardwired devices should be tested because they can stop functioning. Replace the batteries in all devices twice a year at Daylight Savings Time. A smoke or CO detector that is 10 years or older should be replaced.
Change HVAC Filters to Make Your Home Healthy and Safe
Failing to change HVAC filters on time impacts your indoor air quality. A clogged HVAC filter allows dust through your air vents and makes the system less efficient. Refer to the system’s manual and set reminders on a calendar to change the HVAC filters regularly.
Keep Mold From Growing
Mold grows indoors when the conditions are warm, dark, and damp. Eliminating moisture around the house is the best way to keep mold from growing. Along with basic measures like fixing plumbing leaks and wiping up spills, run a dehumidifier to lower humidity levels in problem areas.
Inspect Decks and Railings Yearly
The deck’s structural integrity has a big impact on your home’s safety. Secure any loose railings so there are no accidents should someone rest against them. Inspect your deck’s materials to make sure all boards are in good condition and railings are secure.
CheckIt Home Inspections provides home inspection services to Roanoke and the New River Valley. Contact us to book an appointment.