A Healthier and More Sustainable Home

The health risks of natural gas are now well-known, and many people are considering how to switch to electric as a safer alternative. The use of gas for cooking and fireplaces has negative impacts on indoor air quality (What Science Says About the Health Risks of Gas Stoves) and the environment due to the combustion of fossil fuels. Burning natural gas releases harmful carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the air, which contributes to poisonous air that causes serious health problems. Therefore, it's important to consider alternative options like electric appliances and renewable energy sources to reduce the impact of gas on the environment and air quality.

A pollutant called nitrogen dioxide forms when fossil fuels such as natural gas are burned at high temperatures. It is one of six air pollutants that have national air quality standards to limit the levels in the outdoor air. NO2 can also form indoors when fuels like wood or gas are burned. NO2 can cause respiratory problems, particularly for those with asthma or other respiratory illnesses, and long-term exposure to NO2 from gas stoves has also been linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease. Over a ten-month period, households with electric stoves experienced a 35 percent reduction in daily NO2 concentrations compared to those who used gas stoves.

As homeowners value healthy environments that complement smaller environmental footprints and sustainable homes, instead of relying on natural gas or oil for heating and cooking, homes will increasingly use electricity from renewable sources. Electric appliances like stoves, water heaters, and heating systems are powered by electricity instead of natural gas, which means they don't produce any harmful emissions. This improves residents' overall health and wellness by improving indoor air quality and reducing the serious risks of regular poisonous gas exposure. 

While there may be upfront costs associated with upgrading to electric appliances and heating systems, the long-term benefits for both the environment and our health are significant. At PACE we value moving homes towards a more sustainable future and improving the lives of residents in the process. We would love to partner with you to explore ways to electrify your home and improve your respiratory health. 

There are several ways to change to electric in the home: 

Upgrade to electric appliances

Overall, upgrading to electric appliances can be a great way to improve indoor air quality, promote better health, and save money in the long run. Be sure to consult with a qualified professional to ensure that the installation is done safely and effectively. Look for Energy Star-certified appliances that are energy-efficient and use less electricity. 

Install an electric heat pump

In addition to the health benefits, electric heat pumps can also be more cost-effective in the long run. While the initial cost of installation may be higher than traditional heating and cooling systems, electric heat pumps tend to be more energy-efficient and can save you money on your monthly utility bills.

Remove gas fireplaces

Switching your fireplace from gas to electric can be a great way to improve indoor air quality and promote better health. Gas fireplaces produce combustion byproducts that can be harmful to our health, particularly for those with respiratory problems. Electric fireplaces, on the other hand, don't produce any harmful emissions, making them a safer and cleaner alternative.

Install solar panels

Generate your own electricity by installing solar panels on your roof. This will not only help you reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, but it can also save you money on your energy bills over time.

Upgrade your insulation

Proper insulation can help reduce your energy consumption and make your home more comfortable year-round. This means you'll need less energy to heat and cool your home, which in turn reduces the harmful gasses in your home. 

Switch to an electric car

If you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint even further, consider switching to an electric car. You can charge your car at home using renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines.

Making the switch to renewable energy sources can have significant health benefits by improving indoor air quality. There are many options available to homeowners who want to make the switch. Get in touch with PACE today so we can partner to reduce risks and improve air quality in your home while minimizing your environmental impact. 

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