Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can be found in homes and buildings all over the world. It comes from uranium, which is found in soil, rocks, and water. While radon can be harmless at low levels, long-term exposure to high levels of the gas can cause serious health problems like lung cancer. That’s why it’s important to take steps to reduce or “mitigate” the level of radon in your home.
What Is Radon Mitigation?
Radon mitigation is any method used to reduce the level of radon present in a home or building. There are a variety of radon mitigation systems on the market, but not all of them are equally effective. Some common radon mitigation approaches include installing a radon fan or placing activated carbon filters in the home. In most cases, the best radon mitigation system is one that is professionally installed by a qualified contractor. Standard Water installs an active sub-slab depressurization system (SDP), which uses fans to draw air out from under the foundation of a house and send it through a pipe and out above the roof line.
The Benefits of Radon Mitigation
Radon mitigation has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing lung cancer due to prolonged exposure to high levels of radon gas. By reducing the amount of radon in your home or building, you can help protect yourself and your family from potential health risks associated with exposure. Additionally, having an SDP installed can improve indoor air quality by reducing humidity levels and increasing ventilation throughout your home or building. This can help reduce unpleasant odors as well as improve energy efficiency by allowing fresh air into your home without having to open windows or use air conditioning units for cooling purposes.
How To Tell If Your Home Needs Radon Mitigation
The only way to know if your home needs radon mitigation is by conducting a test for radon levels. You can purchase kits online or at most hardware stores that will allow you to test for radon on your own. It’s important to note that these tests do not provide an exact measurement; rather they give you an indication of whether or not you should take further action such as hiring a professional inspector who specializes in testing for and mitigating against radon gas buildup in homes and buildings.
Elevated radon levels are found in 40% of homes in Minnesota. Fortunately, radon risk is largely preventable through testing and, if necessary, installing a basement radon mitigation system. With more people working from home, it’s important to test for radon because it’s the only way to know if radon levels are at or above safe levels.
Many people think if they test once they don’t need to test again, or if their neighbor’s radon level is low, they don’t need to test. Even if the initial test shows the radon level is low, it’s a good idea to retest at least every five years because levels may change. Homes with mitigation systems should also be re-tested every two years. Even new homes built with radon resistant features can still have elevated radon and should be tested.
Installation Of A Radon Mitigation System
How To Tell If Your Home Needs Radon Mitigation
Most radon mitigation system installations require electrical work to power the radon fan which requires an electrical permit. If a contractor is doing the work, the person must be licensed.
Radon reduction systems cause some loss of heated or air conditioned air, which could increase your utility bills. How much your utility bills increase will depend on the climate you live in, what kind of reduction system you select, and how your home is built. Systems that use fans are more effective in reducing radon levels; however, they will slightly increase your electric bill.
Similar to a furnace or chimney, radon reduction systems need occasional maintenance. If you have a fan powered (or active) system, you should look at your warning device, usually a manometer, on a regular basis to make sure the system is working correctly. Fans may last for five years or more — manufacturer warranties tend not to exceed five years — and may then need to be repaired or replaced. The cost to replace a fan varies as it is based on labor and materials. Ask qualified mitigators for estimates before work begins.
Our Solutions
How To Tell If Your Home Needs Radon Mitigation
If you happen to have one of our basement waterproofing systems installed, that’s good. Since our waterproofing system sits under your basement slab next to the footing and is sealed, it’s perfect for adding a radon mitigation system. We simply tie into the waterproofing system at an appropriate spot and draw air from the soil underneath your basement floor and direct it into the atmosphere above your house. If you don’t have one of our waterproofing systems installed, no worries, we have solutions for every basement.
Conclusion
Radon mitigation is essential when it comes to protecting yourself and your family from potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to high levels of this naturally occurring gas. While there are DIY kits available for testing for radon levels in your home, it’s best practice to enlist the help of a professional inspector who specializes in mitigating against gas buildup before taking any steps towards reducing risk factors associated with prolonged exposure to high concentrations of this dangerous element. Remember: knowledge is power when it comes to protecting yourself and those around you from potentially hazardous materials like radon!