6 tips for a healthy house, yard this summer

HOW DO I PICK THE RIGHT LAWNMOWER FOR MY YARD?

The size of your yard is the most important factor to consider in choosing the right lawnmower. Gas and electric mowers are comparably priced, but gas mowers tend to be a better fit for larger lawns and those that need the mobility to go around trees, boulders, shrubs and such.
Electric mowers are more practical for smaller yards with no obstacles (remember the cord — while cordless electrics are available, the cost increases dramatically and power drops).

Weight also is a factor — you get more of a workout with a gas mower because they are heavier; gas also requires more maintenance than electric.

WHAT CAN I DO TO MY HOUSE AND YARD TO LOWER MY UTILITY BILL?

House — change the air filters monthly and replace incandescent light bulbs with high efficiency CFLs, LEDs and Halogens. A Halogen using 53 watts produces 1050 lumens, which is the equivalent of a 75 watt incandescent bulb. This results in an estimated annual cost savings of $6.38 for each bulb.

Add or replace weather stripping; put an insulating blanket on your hot water heater; install sunscreens, especially on south and west facing windows; consider planting shade trees (check with your HOA for allowable trees) on walls where there are windows.

Yard — install an automatic sprinkler system and make sure all emitters/pop-ups are secure and not leaking. Consider removing turf and replacing it with DG (granite).

ARE THERE INVISIBLE CONTAMINANTS IN MY HOUSE I SHOULD BE AWARE OF?

Yes, invisible as well as visible contaminants. For micro allergens, including household dust, pollen, pet dander and mold spores, see the question on dust. Mold is an issue, even in our Arizona desert and can be toxic and cause skin rash, eye irritation, headaches, fatigue, sore throats and sinus issues.

To prevent molds, make sure you have adequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, and make sure outdoor hose bibs or irrigation emitters are not leaking against the foundation.

Also, have the roof checked for leaks on a regular basis. If you already have mold, clean the area using a product such as one-part bleach to one-part water to kill the mold and prevent it from coming back. On the exterior, a product such as Jomax house cleaner is effective. If you aren’t sure if you have mold, but notice a damp smell, see evidence of a leak or experience an allergic reaction, mold test kits are available. 

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause severe health issues. A carbon monoxide detector (similar to a smoke detector) is an effective way to make sure you and your family are safe from carbon monoxide buildup. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are released from paint and other building materials such as carpets and adhesives.

WHAT KIND OF LAWN FURNITURE IS BEST FOR THE HOT MARICOPA SUMMER?
Pool toys are the best kind of furniture for the hot Maricopa summer! The next best lawn furniture is anything under an umbrella or patio and definitely not something with a metal seat. Today’s new woven fabrics for chairs and cushions that dry fast and resist mildew are a great way to continue to enjoy the outdoors. Try adding a misting system or shade “sails” to your favorite outdoor area to extend the season all summer long. Then only the monsoon will interrupt the fun.