No one likes to think that their own home could be causing them harm. But, if you’re planning a renovation, concerned about underlying health issues, or you just want to ensure your family’s safety, it’s important to know if there are any hidden dangers present within your house.
Some dangers could be hidden in plain sight. Others might be more difficult to recognize right away. That’s why it’s always a good idea to do some investigating. Your home should feel like a sanctuary and a place of comfort. If you’re worried about what’s going on beneath the surface, you’ll never feel content.
So, how can you recognize issues like poor air quality, mold, electrical issues, and more that could be just beneath your nose? Let’s cover a few tips and tricks to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Something’s in the Air …
Unfortunately, when your home has poor air quality, it can be hard to notice right away. But, if someone in your family has respiratory issues and they seem to be getting worse, it’s worth checking out.
One of the best things you can do is to get the air quality of your home tested by a professional. But, that can be costly, so it should only be done if you already think there’s a problem. There are several signs you can look for on your own to determine if the quality of air is an issue, including:
- Dust buildup on vents and surfaces
- Cold and warm spots in your home
- Humidity issues
- Signs of mold and mildew
- Unpleasant odors
If you determine that you have poor air quality, talking to an HVAC specialist and getting your ducts cleaned is your best option.
There could be other hidden dangers lurking in the air that are harder to spot, including asbestos. While the chances of asbestos just “floating around” are slim, it can happen if you’re doing renovations. If your home was built between the 1940s-1970s, some of the construction materials may have utilized asbestos. Unfortunately, the substance has been linked to a variety of harmful respiratory issues, as well as lung cancer and mesothelioma. If you’re worried that you might have asbestos in your walls or floors, calling a professional is your only option. Never try to remove it yourself.
Evaluating Your Electric System
If you live in an older home, you should already have an understanding of when the electric system was installed. Obviously, electrical wiring is nothing to take lightly, so it’s crucial to understand how certain displays could be major signs of an electrical issue in your home.
Some of the most common signs of electrical problems include:
- Frayed wires
- Scorch marks
- Flickering lights
- Buzzing sounds
- Strange odors/burning smells
- Warm outlets
Some of these signs are more obvious than others. That’s why being diligent about your home’s electrical system needs to be a priority. The sooner you catch an electrical issue, the sooner you can get it taken care of to keep your family safe.
Whenever you’re investigating a potential electrical issue, make sure to keep yourself safe, as well. Wearing the right gear and taking precautions will help you to avoid injuries like getting shocked or burned. In most cases, calling a professional electrician is the best thing you can do.
These tips just barely scratch the surface when it comes to potential hidden dangers in your home. Pay attention to everything from your leaking roof to strange sounds coming from the pipes in your bathroom. Chances are, if something feels “off”, you should go with your gut and check it out. Simply paying attention and having an investigative mindset can make a big difference in the safety of your home.
