How to Fix Radon in Your House?
Fixing radon in your house typically involves installing a radon mitigation system, designed to vent radon gas from under the foundation to the outside air, significantly reducing indoor radon levels. The effectiveness of a mitigation system depends on the home’s construction, soil characteristics, and the skill of the installer.
Understanding the Radon Threat
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and the second leading cause overall. When radon gas seeps into your home through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, or other entry points, it can accumulate to dangerous levels. Testing is the only way to know if you have a radon problem. The EPA recommends fixing your home if your radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.
Diagnosing the Problem: Radon Testing
Before you can fix a radon problem, you need to confirm its existence and severity. Several testing methods are available:
- Short-Term Tests: These tests typically last between two and seven days and provide a quick indication of radon levels. Common short-term tests include charcoal canisters and alpha track detectors.
- Long-Term Tests: These tests measure radon levels over a period of 90 days or more, providing a more accurate average radon concentration. Alpha track detectors are often used for long-term testing.
- DIY Kits vs. Professional Testing: DIY radon test kits are readily available and cost-effective, offering an initial assessment. However, for more accurate and reliable results, especially if high levels are suspected, hiring a certified radon measurement professional is highly recommended. They can employ more sophisticated equipment and ensure proper test conditions.
The Primary Solution: Radon Mitigation Systems
The most effective method for reducing radon levels is installing a radon mitigation system. These systems create a vacuum beneath the foundation to draw radon gas up and away from the house, venting it safely outside.
Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)
This is the most common and generally most effective radon mitigation technique. An SSD system involves:
- Drilling a hole through the concrete slab, typically in a basement or crawlspace.
- Creating a suction pit beneath the slab.
- Installing a PVC pipe to connect the suction pit to a fan.
- Running the PVC pipe vertically through the house and venting it above the roofline.
- Sealing cracks and openings in the foundation to improve system efficiency.
The fan creates negative pressure beneath the slab, drawing radon gas away from the house and venting it into the atmosphere where it disperses.
Other Mitigation Techniques
While SSD is the most common, other techniques may be appropriate depending on the specific house construction and radon levels. These include:
- Sub-Membrane Depressurization: Used in crawl spaces with dirt floors. A plastic membrane is installed over the soil, and a fan draws air from beneath the membrane and vents it outside.
- Drain-Tile Depressurization: If your home has drain tiles around the foundation, this technique utilizes those tiles to collect and vent radon gas.
- Block-Wall Depressurization: Used for homes with hollow-block foundation walls, where radon can seep through the blocks.
- Sealing: While not a standalone solution, sealing cracks and openings in the foundation can help reduce radon entry, especially when combined with other mitigation techniques.
Installation and Maintenance of Radon Mitigation Systems
Professional Installation is Crucial
While DIY radon mitigation kits exist, professional installation by a certified radon mitigation contractor is strongly recommended. A certified contractor has the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to properly design and install a system that will effectively reduce radon levels in your home. They will also ensure the system meets all relevant building codes and regulations. Furthermore, many states require certification for radon mitigation work.
System Monitoring and Maintenance
After installation, the mitigation system should be regularly monitored. A manometer, a U-shaped tube filled with liquid, is typically installed to visually indicate that the fan is creating negative pressure. Regular visual inspections of the system, including the fan and piping, are also recommended. The radon levels should be retested periodically, usually every two years, to ensure the system continues to be effective. Radon mitigation fans typically last 5-10 years and may need to be replaced.
Cost Considerations
The cost of radon mitigation can vary depending on the type of system required, the size and construction of the house, and the location. Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,500 for a professionally installed radon mitigation system. While this may seem like a significant expense, it’s a worthwhile investment in the health and safety of your family.
FAQs About Radon Mitigation
FAQ 1: How do I know if I need a radon mitigation system?
You need a radon mitigation system if a radon test reveals levels at or above 4 pCi/L. The EPA recommends taking action even if levels are slightly below this threshold.
FAQ 2: Can I install a radon mitigation system myself?
While DIY kits exist, professional installation is highly recommended. Certified radon mitigation contractors have the expertise and equipment to ensure the system is installed correctly and effectively reduces radon levels. Improper installation can lead to ineffective mitigation and even exacerbate the problem.
FAQ 3: How long does it take to install a radon mitigation system?
Most radon mitigation systems can be installed in one day. However, the actual installation time may vary depending on the complexity of the system and the house’s construction.
FAQ 4: Will a radon mitigation system eliminate radon completely?
Radon mitigation systems are designed to reduce radon levels significantly, typically below 4 pCi/L, and ideally below 2 pCi/L. It’s unlikely to eliminate radon completely, as radon is naturally occurring in the soil.
FAQ 5: Is a radon mitigation system noisy?
Most modern radon mitigation fans are relatively quiet. However, some noise is inevitable. The fan should be located in an area where noise will be minimized, such as the attic or garage. Noise levels should be checked during installation.
FAQ 6: Does a radon mitigation system require a lot of maintenance?
Radon mitigation systems require minimal maintenance. The primary maintenance task is periodically checking the manometer to ensure the fan is working correctly and retesting radon levels every two years. The fan may need to be replaced after 5-10 years.
FAQ 7: Will a radon mitigation system affect my home’s resale value?
Having a radon mitigation system installed can actually increase your home’s resale value. It demonstrates that you have addressed a potential health hazard and provides peace of mind for prospective buyers.
FAQ 8: Can I just seal cracks in my foundation to fix a radon problem?
Sealing cracks and openings can help reduce radon entry, but it’s rarely sufficient as a standalone solution, especially if radon levels are high. It is most effective when combined with a radon mitigation system.
FAQ 9: How can I find a certified radon mitigation contractor?
You can find certified radon mitigation contractors through your state’s radon program or by searching online. Look for contractors certified by the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP).
FAQ 10: Will a radon mitigation system increase my energy bills?
Radon mitigation fans consume a small amount of electricity, typically costing around $20-$50 per year. The increase in energy bills is usually minimal.
FAQ 11: Can radon come from my water supply?
Yes, radon can be present in well water. If you suspect radon in your water, you should test your water and consider a point-of-entry radon removal system.
FAQ 12: What are the long-term health effects of radon exposure?
Long-term exposure to radon significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. The risk is higher for smokers. Mitigation drastically reduces the risk, safeguarding the health of your family.