How Does The Radon System Work?

Radon is a silent killer, causing up to 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Radon is a normal by-product of uranium decay and is odorless, tasteless and colorless. The way to detect it is through a radon detector or home test kit. If your home's radon levels are over 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), you should seek the services of a certified radon mitigation contractor, recommends the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Radon in the Home

Radon tends to collect in the lower areas of your home, such as the basement or crawl spaces. Your radon mitigation system will target reducing radon in these places. If these areas are not ventilated, radon may accumulate to unsafe levels. Radon may enter your home through the surrounding soil. Geology will also play a role, as some regions produce more radon than others. Air Chek, Inc. provides an interactive map so you can evaluate your threat from radon exposure in your state.

Types of Radon Systems

The type of system you install depends upon the nature of your radon problem as well as the type of foundation of your home. The soil suction system draws radon from under your house and vents it away from the structure, explains Radon Reduction Systems, Inc. A sub-slab depressurization system works within the house by creating a pressure difference that forces radon back into the soil. This method is the most reliable way to reduce radon, advises the EPA.

Home Repair

To be most effective, the EPA recommends preventing radon from entering your home in the first place. You can complement the functioning of your radon system by sealing any cracks in your foundation. A contractor may use what is called a smoke gun to detect where radon may be entering your home, through air movement patterns. Any repair issues can be identified and fixed as part of your radon system installation.

Benefits

Your radon mitigation system will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your home environment is safe. By reducing your exposure, you lower your risk of developing respiratory issues such as emphysema and some types of pneumonia. Even if your home test result is lower than 4 pCi/L, you may want to consider a radon system for your home. The University of Minnesota warns that any exposure can have potential health effects.

Prevention/Solution

Since it is undetectable, it is vital that you periodically test your home for radon even if you have a radon system in place. Testing will alert you to a failure of your system. You can purchase test kits at hardware stores or home improvement centers. A 2008 report by the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists recommends testing in the winter when snow and ice cover may prevent radon from naturally leaving your home through the soil.