Page 16 - Hawaii Renovation - Jan 30, 2022

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HAWAII RENOVATION JANUARY 30, 2022
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Howtogeta
healthier home
for under
$100
t’s as crystal clear as the air and water can be in your home: living in a healthier
space is a top priority. From small projects to large re- models, homeowners are focused on how these up- grades might impact their health, while having a posi- tive impact on the environ- ment.
“Going green can be af- fordable when there are eco- friendly choices available no matter your budget,” says Christopher O’Rourke, Mer- cury Insurance vice president of property claims. “Healthy home choices, especially for large renovations, may bring your homeowners cost down and save you money on insur- ance too.”
A healthier home starts with evaluating what needs routine maintenance and what products can be re- placed with eco-friendly alternatives. Here are some healthy home improvement tips that you can begin with today.
CLEAN, FRESH AND SAFE AIR
According to the EPA, the air inside your home can be
two to five times more pollut- ed than the air outside. Air fil- ters in your heating and cool- ing system work by drawing out pollutants like dust and pet dander. When they get dirty, it makes it harder for this system to work effi- ciently. Routinely check your air filters for accumulated dirt and dust. Depending on what type of filter you need, HEPA filters can be replaced for as little as $25.
A simple project you can do at no cost is checking that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home work properly. Heating your home during winter in- creases the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poison- ing. Checking the detectors around your home should be done routinely, especially during cold weather months.
PURE WATER
Water filters are a popular health-conscious home up- grade that can fit a range of budgets. The most popular types of water filtration are filtered pitchers that can start at $20. There are also under- the-sink, on-the-counter and faucet-mounted filtration
system alternatives depend- ing on how large of an up- grade you want.
Water leak detection de- vices are another popular home improvement. These systems can notify you when a leak is detected and can shut off the water system if a major problem is found. Mercury Insurance offers a water leak detection dis- count to qualifying homes that are equipped with these systems. (Discount availabil- ity may be limited to certain states. Speak to a Mercury agent to confirm the cover- ages available in your state.)
HOME SUPPLIES THAT ARE GREAT AT THEIR JOBS AND EASY ON THE ENVIRONMENT
Over the years, many consumers have been con-
cerned about the ingredients found in conventional clean- ing products, paints, flooring and building materials. Many have decided to replace them with products that are envi- ronmentally friendly. Look for products that are biodegrad- able and sourced from renew- able resources instead of pe- troleum. Be wary of cleaners that claim to be all natural without clearly identifying their environmental benefits.
PAINTING
Whether you are doing a light touch-up around your home or a large project, toxic paint could negatively impact the air quality of your living space. Look for op- tions that are free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or are Green Seal or Green- Guard certified.
REPLACING APPLIANCES
Always look for applianc- es that are LEED certified or STAR rated. These prod- ucts are more sustainable and reduce energy usage. You may also qualify for a green homeowners discount through your insurance for having these appliances in your home.
FLOORING
Look for eco-friendly op- tions such as unfinished hardwood, stone or concrete and carpets made of natural fibers. Make sure to use toxic- free adhesives to reduce the amount of chemicals in your home.
BUILDING MATERIALS
If you are going to be re- placing drywall or insulation, look for GreenGuard certi-
fied materials to avoid toxic chemicals such as formalde- hyde or acetaldehyde that are commonly found in these materials.
Home improvements and routine maintenance can create a healthier living en- vironment. This green trend is also good for your wallet, as Mercury Insurance will ap- ply a 5% green home insur- ance discount to homeown- ers who provide proof of certification that their home has been certified as Green by the U.S. Green Building Council LEED for homes rating system or meets the requirements of the National Association of Home Build- ers Green Building Guide- lines.
This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.
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