How Does a Radon Mitigation System Work
Radon is a radioactive, colorless, and odorless gas that comes naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It can enter homes and other buildings through gaps or cracks in the foundation and accumulate to dangerous levels. This can pose a serious health risk to those living inside, as radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
To protect against this risk, many homeowners choose to install a radon mitigation system. The mitigation of radon is a very specific process where the radon gas below the slab of the home is removed to the outside. This is accomplished through a series of venting and air movement from the inside to the outside.
In this article, we’ll look at how a radon mitigation system works and what you should know to ensure your home is safe from the dangers of radon.
Why is Radon Dangerous to Our Health?
Before we can understand how a radon mitigation system works, it’s important to know why it is necessary in the first place.
Radon gas is dangerous to our health because of its radioactive properties. When people breathe in high levels of radon over a long period of time, they are exposed to alpha radiation which damages the cells that line their lungs. This can lead to a higher risk of lung cancer. Other possible health effects of radon exposure include respiratory conditions and other chronic illnesses.
How Does Radon Gas Enter Your Home
Radon gas can seep into your home through cracks or gaps in the foundation, walls, or floors, as well as through openings like pipes, sumps, or drains. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels and lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer. By understanding how radon gas enters your home, you can take steps to mitigate its effects and protect your health and well-being.
What is Radon Mitigation?
Radon mitigation refers to the process of reducing the concentration of radon gas in a building to safe levels. The goal is to lower the level of radon in your home to below the EPA’s action level of 4 pCi/L. Quality radon mitigation systems can reduce a home’s radon level by up to 99%.
These mitigation systems are a cost-effective way to protect your family and pets from the dangers of radon. The installation process typically takes just one or two days – and the cost is usually much less than what it would cost to treat health effects caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of radon gas.
How Does a Radon Mitigation System Work?
A radon mitigation system typically consists of several key components that work together to remove radon gas from your home effectively. The specific design and installation of the system will depend on your building’s layout, construction, and other factors. But the basic principles remain the same.
The main components of a radon mitigation system are as follows:
1. Radon Testing
The first step in the mitigation process is to test the home for the presence of radon. A professional radon testing service usually does this, and it involves placing a small device in the lowest livable level of the home for several days.
2. Suction Point
After the testing is complete and it is confirmed that radon is present, a radon mitigation system is installed. The first component of this system is a suction point. This is a hole drilled in the home’s foundation, usually in the basement or crawl space.
3. PVC Piping
PVC piping is then installed to connect the suction point to the exterior of the home. This allows the radon gas to be vented out of the home to the outside.
4. Radon Fan
A radon fan is then installed in the piping system. This fan is responsible for creating negative pressure beneath the foundation. This allows the radon gas to be effectively sucked out of the ground and vented outside.
5. Sealing
To ensure that radon gas is effectively captured, any gaps or cracks in the foundation are sealed. This prevents radon gas from entering the home through these openings.
6. Monitoring
After the system is installed, it is important to monitor the radon levels in the home to ensure that the system reduces the radon gas levels. A radon mitigation service should be able to provide this service to ensure the mitigation system works appropriately.
Why Should I Hire a Professional Radon Testing and Remediation Company?
Hiring a professional radon testing and remediation company is highly recommended for several reasons. These include:
Expertise and Experience
Radon mitigation systems require specific knowledge and expertise in order to be installed correctly. A professional radon testing and remediation company will have the experience necessary to ensure that your system is installed correctly and works as desired.
Compliance with Local Regulations
Each state and locality has its own regulations regarding radon mitigation systems. A professional radon testing and remediation company will be familiar with these regulations and can ensure that your system is compliant with them.
Quality Assurance
A professional radon testing and remediation company will also provide quality assurance. This includes follow-up testing to ensure that the radon levels in your home are reduced to acceptable levels and that the system is working as it should.
Long-term Safety
Radon levels can change over time, and regular monitoring is essential to ensure that the mitigation system continues to work effectively. Professional radon contractors can provide ongoing monitoring services to ensure that your home remains safe from radon gas exposure in the long term.
Peace of Mind
Radon is a serious health risk, and knowing that a professionally installed radon mitigation system protects your home can give you peace of mind. You can have confidence that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your family’s health from the dangers of radon gas.
FAQs About Radon Mitigation Services
Here are some frequently asked questions we get about radon mitigation services:
In Need of Radon Mitigation Services?
If you need professional radon mitigation services in New Jersey, Certified Environmental Contractors is here to help. We have years of experience providing radon testing and mitigation services that meet all local regulations. Our team of professionals will work with you to ensure your home is safe from the dangers of radon gas.
Contact us today to learn more about our radon mitigation services and how we can help protect your home. We look forward to assisting you.
First Published: March 23, 2022
Updated: April 27, 2023
