From Dream House to Healthy Home: Overcoming Health Hazards in New Houses

• Moving into a newly constructed or renovated house is an exciting prospect. However, amidst the glossy finishes and fresh aesthetics, beware of potential health hazards.
• Chemicals from lead paint, formaldehyde from carpets, VOCs from construction materials, and dust and debris can cause respiratory problems and other serious health issues.
• Implement preventative and corrective measures to mitigate health risks in a new house, including choosing natural materials, increasing ventilation, controlling humidity, using baking soda and charcoal, keeping indoor plants, utilizing steam and vacuum, and last but not least, investing in a high quality air purifier.
• Blueair air purifiers, known for their award winning HEPASilent^TM technology, are effective in eliminating air pollutants. Opt for models that also feature activated carbon filters to minimize your exposure to harmful gases and chemicals.
  

Newly constructed or renovated houses can harbor a range of hazards that pose risks to the occupants' health. These hazards arise from various sources, including construction materials, paints, and chemicals used during the building process. It is crucial for homeowners to be aware of these potential dangers and take appropriate measures to mitigate their impact on their well-being.

One of the most significant health hazards commonly found in new houses is lead paint. Shockingly, a study conducted by the Nexus3 Foundation in 2021 revealed that about three-quarters of the solvent-based decorative paints sold for home use in Indonesia contained lead levels exceeding the regulatory safe limit of 600 parts per million (ppm). Exposure to lead can be particularly harmful, especially for young children and pregnant women, leading to developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and other serious health issues.

In addition to lead, other chemicals present in and around the house pose significant health risks. For example, new carpeting can contain formaldehyde, a chemical known to cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. Furthermore, building materials such as varnish, adhesives, and sealants may release harmful volatile chemicals into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution.

Dust and fine particles are major pollutants in new houses, causing discomfort and health hazards. They can lead to respiratory problems, eye irritation, skin irritation, coughing, sneezing, and headaches.

These minute airborne particles and chemicals are often exacerbated by inadequate ventilation, resulting in poor indoor air quality. Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Insufficient airflow can cause a buildup of indoor pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide, and construction debris. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can contribute to various health problems, such as respiratory issues, allergies, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer.

To address these potential health hazards in new houses, several preventive and corrective measures can be taken:

• Choose natural materials: Opt for natural materials like wood, cotton, and wool instead of synthetic materials like plastics and fragrances.
• Buy organic: Choose organic products and natural products with names you can pronounce.
• Increase ventilation: Open windows and use fans to circulate the air and move VOCs out of the house.
• Increase heat: Heat up the air to over 30°C for at least two days to speed up the outgassing process.
• Control humidity: Use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels in the house and prevent mould growth.
• Try baking soda and charcoal: Neutralize VOCs with baking soda and activated charcoal.
• Keep indoor plants: Indoor plants can purify the air and further reduce VOCs.
• Steam and vacuum cleaning: Vacuuming can help reduce health hazards in a new house by removing dust and fine particles from floors and carpets. Steam cleaning can sanitize surfaces without the use of harsh chemical cleaners.
• Use an air purifier: Invest in a quality HEPA-based air purifier to remove pollutants from the air. An air purifier equipped with activated carbon will adsorb various harmful gases and reduce exposure to airborne chemicals such as VOCs, formaldehyde, and many others.

In conclusion, while moving into a new house is undoubtedly an exciting achievement, it is crucial to be aware of the potential health hazards associated with new homes. Lead paint, chemicals, dust, and debris present in post-construction are just a few examples of the risks that can impact one's well-being. By being informed, proactive, and taking appropriate preventive and corrective measures, homeowners can ensure a healthier living environment for themselves and their loved ones. After all, a safe and healthy home is the foundation for a happy and fulfilling life!