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3 Evidenced-Based, Natural Ways to Get Healthier Right Now

February 15, 2021 0

Improving your health can seem daunting when there are a lot of steps involved like meal prepping and working out. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways you can improve your health right now without having to jump through any hoops or having to wait. Here are three evidence-based, natural ways you can boost your body’s health and well-being ASAP.

Change Your HVAC Filters

According to a study published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, indoor air quality can have a greater impact on your health than outdoor air. Indoor air pollutants such as cleaners, varnished, fungal spores, and smoke can create bigger problems for our health because we’re breathing them in more frequently in such a small space. With so many of us staying indoors more often due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important now than ever to monitor your indoor air quality.

One easy way to boost your indoor air quality is by changing out your HVAC filters at least twice a month, or three times if you have pets. Dirt, debris, and dander can build-up in your HVAC filters throughout the day. When the filters aren’t swapped out, your HVAC system can’t trap the grime and instead spits it out into the air you breathe. What’s more, HVAC systems typically last 12 years, but when they may fail sooner when they have to work harder to deliver warm or cool air.

Replace Your Toothbrush

Many people already know that the American Dental Association recommends brushing at least twice a day. But not many know that they’re meant to replace their toothbrush at least once every three months. In fact, not replacing your toothbrush frequently could actually be making you sick. According to researchers at England’s University of Manchester, toothbrushes can harbor over 100 million different bacteria including E. coli and staphylococci (“Staph”) bacteria. Consider buying a pack of toothbrushes to make changing them out easier than waiting for your next dentist appointment.

Stop Cold Drafts

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts around your doors and windows can increase your heating bills by up to 10%. But drafts aren’t only problematic for your energy bills. They’re also problematic to your health. Research shows that when cold air from a draft comes in contact with your throat, the temperature of your body’s pharyngeal mucosa lowers. This causes the mucosa to dry out, which increases your risk of infection. To protect yourself against the common cold and other pesky pathogens, make sure to cover any gaps between your door and the floor and stuff any window gaps with spray-adhesive insulation.

When it comes to improving your health, sometimes taking the smallest steps can make the biggest difference. Try out some of the tips above to boost your well-being and get your body feeling great.

Is It Time To Revamp Your HVAC System?

November 7, 2018 0

 

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When you own a home, you have to provide your family with a place to live their greatest moments. The home must be warm and cozy and have an eco-friendly design with high-performance features. The good news is that making upgrades to your home can offer potential savings and create energy-efficient options.

For example, a homeowner can choose between adding insulation to their house or move towards an updated HVAC system. If you’re looking for a way to feel better about your home and conserve energy, then you’ve come to the right place.

Upgrade Your HVAC System To Help Reduce Energy Cost

Deciding to upgrade your heating and cooling system can help you reduce cost and make the home energy efficient. Here are a few options:

Ice-powered Air Conditioning Unit

This unit works by making sure that the water is frozen in a tank overnight. By using electrical energy during the night versus the daytime, a homeowner can have enough cooling during the day and reduce costs for peak hours.

Thermal Air Conditioning Units

These units are different and new to technology, but should take off in the next few years. The systems are supplemented with natural gas and solar energy. They provide more cooling capabilities than the traditional AC units and eliminate electricity costs.

 Heat Pumps

Dual heat pumps provide a great option for comfort. They are a combination of a gas furnace and an electric heat pump. When it gets cold outside, the gas heater will take over until the temperature rises above 35 degrees. Even though the cost is very expensive, purchasing the system itself can last for several years.

Floor Heating

This type of heating will give you the opportunity to experience warmth from the ground up. It will offer you radiant heat versus hot air heating throughout your home. However, it is very important to have the proper amount of insulation in your home so that you can increase energy efficiency by 30%.

Ductless

The majority of homes will have a hidden maze of ductwork underneath. If a particular ductless system is used to deliver conditioned air, then it will typically increase energy efficiency by 40% versus central heating.

However, you may have come across a few homes that are considered “smart homes.” These homes make it easy to move into and can be very convenient. They offer already automated appliances with technological advancements.

For example, you can leave your home and never have to worry about turning off your heating or cooling system. If you forget, then you can make a quick adjustment with your mobile device through an app.

A few other high-tech features would include scroll compressors, variable speed motors, smart control sensors, and dual heat exchangers. However, be advised that it doesn’t matter what system you use if your insulation system is faulty.

Sometimes insulation upgrades are a necessity. It can have a significant impact on your energy cost. By replacing your insulation or increasing it in your home, you will be able to reduce your energy bills. Remember, older homes sometimes lack the proper insulation, interfering with efficiency and savings.

Every type of insulation is different.

Spray foam – You can choose a spray foam type of insulation. The foam will seal gaps in leaks by hardening into a solid.

Fiberglass batts – If you’re looking for an inexpensive option, then you can choose fiberglass batts. They are a cheap type of insulation that can be stapled. When it is installed correctly, it can offer a quick fix.

Reflective barriers -Reflective barriers are usually found in the attic. They are used to reduce heat and cold and offer barriers that reflect the sun rays. This option is only available for homes that are generally in the sun a lot. You could choose this option, but make sure to speak to a representative for more guidance.

The cost of installation can vary depending on the size of your home and the design. An average attic cost can range from $400 to $1800. However, this small investment is a great price to pay if you are concerned about saving energy and reducing costs on your home.

You can also check with your state tax department to see if there are any rebates available for insulation upgrades. However, federal tax credits expired a few years ago. You may still be able to check with your local districts to determine if there are any incentives.