Owning your home is a huge milestone, and one of the major benefits is that you can upgrade and improve it any way you choose. While renters are often restricted from updating their residence by their landlord or property owner, as a homeowner, you can make the changes you want to improve your day-to-day life. However, it can be tricky to decide which projects will be worth investing in to help you create a safer, healthier environment for you and your family. If you want to invest in some home improvement projects, keep reading to learn more about four easy upgrades for a healthier home.
1. Install a smart thermostat.
Smart devices have become incredibly popular with homeowners, but a smart thermostat is one of the most useful pieces of technology you can purchase for your home. A smart thermostat operates on a timer and automation, and many can be operated from a mobile app on your phone. By allowing you to run your heating and air conditioning only when you need them, you can save a significant amount on your energy bill every month.
You should also prioritize HVAC maintenance if you want to keep your home healthy and safe. If you notice your HVAC leaking, making odd noises, or producing an unusual odor, you should consider calling a professional air conditioning repair Denver technician to inspect the unit. Which AC smells are serious? It’s hard to say, which is why it’s always best to call a technician if your air conditioner is behaving unusually, even if you think that the bad smell may not be a big deal. The best way to avoid a costly breakdown is to be proactive about maintaining and repairing your HVAC system.
2. Purchase an air purifier for your kitchen.
If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, it may be worth it to buy a kitchen air purifier. Frying and cooking specifically can release volatile organic compounds into the air. These compounds can cause shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, skin problems, and irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. A high-quality air purifier can help eliminate VOCs, in addition to improving indoor air quality generally and helping to remove noticeable kitchen odors.
3. Inspect and repair your windows.
Cracks and crevices in your window can let in everything from outdoor air to moisture to pests. Pollen and other allergens can create severe discomfort for allergy sufferers, and those with asthma can have attacks triggered by breathing contaminated air. It’s especially important to fill any gaps if you live somewhere that has noticeable seasons if you want to avoid increasing the load on your HVAC system.
4. Add some greenery.
Houseplants can make your home look brighter while helping to create a healthier environment. Research shows that indoor plants help to remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzine from the indoor air. One study even demonstrated that the bromeliad plant was able to remove 80 percent of six VOCs in a 12-hour period. If you have a green thumb, investing in some indoor plants could make a big difference at home.
You have an infinite number of options when it comes to deciding how you want to design and upgrade your house. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, so it can be useful to take things step by step. It’s a good idea to start by sitting down and making a list of your priorities. Identify the areas you think most need improvement and the health hazards you’re hoping to eliminate. This is a great way to help you decide what home projects will make the biggest difference in your quality of life. With some simple changes and new technology, you can create the happy and healthy home of your dreams.