462 FUNDAMENTALS OF AGRICULTURE. 



Ventilation. It seems almost needless to say that 

 the house should be well aired, yet there are many 

 farm homes where the air and sunshine scarcely ever 

 reach all of the rooms. Fresh air and sunshine are 

 two things every farmer can enjoy in his home, and 

 every room in the house should be thoroughly aired 

 and penetrated by sunlight every day. In sleeping 

 rooms the windows should be left open day and night. 

 During severe cold or stormy weather at least one 

 window should be left open for every two occupants. 



Water Supply. An abundant supply of pure water 

 is essential in every farm house. In many sections the 

 drinking water is not fit for use. Many country peo- 

 ple become troubled with stomach disorders and other 

 sickness because of impure water. If well water is 

 used, the well should be placed far enough from the 

 house and outbuildings to prevent any seepage into it. 

 It should be covered with cement to prevent contami- 

 nation. The water may be pumped from the well or 

 spring into a large elevated storage tank by the aid 

 of a windmill for use in the house. 



As soon a.s the farmer is able, a sink in the kitchen, 

 a bathroom, wash bowl and sanitary closets should be 

 installed. The farm labor may be used to do this 

 work, and if the services of a plumber are needed only 

 a little of the inside work will be necessary to hire 

 done. A good waterworks system for a country home 

 may be installed for $200 to $300. 



Conveniences. The house should be substantially 

 furnished with good, strong, plain, comfortable furni- 

 ture. Expensive furniture is not necessary in a coun- 

 try home. An acetylene lighting system is a great 

 comfort. The principal cost of this system of light- 

 ing is in the installation. It costs about $200 to put 

 in an acetylene plant. The cost of maintenance is 

 about equal to that of coal oil lamps. 



If the farmer can afford it, a furnace will be found 

 very convenient to heat the house. The cost of putting 

 in a furnace varies from $300 to $400. If the work is 



