Radon mitigation involves lowering the concentration of radon gas in water and buildings. Radon is an important contributor to environmental radioactivity and can cause serious health problems if it is present in a building. Luckily, there are many ways to get rid of radon. Read on to learn more about these techniques.
The first step is identifying the source of radon in your home. Radon mitigation is an expensive process and can be a significant investment. Regular testing should be done to determine the exact radon level in your home. It’s also essential to find a certified contractor who is trained and experienced in properly dealing with radon.
Radon is measured in pico-Curies per liter (pCi/L). The average outdoor Radon level is 0.4 pCi/L, while the average indoor level is 1.3 pCi/L. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a Radon level of four pCi/L or higher requires action. Modern mitigation methods can lower levels to under 2 pCi/L. Radon is an important factor in the development of cancer, so taking steps to protect yourself is an excellent idea.
Radon mitigation is best implemented with a system that uses pipes inserted into the slab foundation. This system reverses the air pressure difference between the house and the soil, which re-directs radon outside. It also prevents radon from being drawn into the house through the foundation. By using multiple suction points throughout the foundation floor slab, the level of radon is reduced. These systems are very effective and will reduce the amount of radon in a home.
The cost of radon mitigation systems depends on the technique used and the nature of the problem. However, the costs are generally comparable to other common home repairs. In addition, many mitigation systems use fans and warning devices to control radon. The fans need to be replaced or repaired every five years. In addition, it is advisable to have an annual maintenance check for the fans to avoid ice jams.
In addition to radon mitigation systems, there are other ways to reduce radon levels. One common method is sub-slab depressurization, which removes radon from the soil beneath a concrete slab. To install a sub-slab depressurization system, a hole is drilled into the concrete slab. The hole is then filled with radon-sucking pipes and connected to a radon vent fan. Another technique is drain tile depressurization, which creates a vacuum within the drain-tile network. This allows the radon mitigation system to communicate with the soil around the drain-tile system.
Another type of mitigation system involves the installation of a vapor barrier in a crawlspace. This mitigation system vents the soil below a home’s foundation walls. The vapor barrier is usually a thick sheet of plastic over the soil in a crawlspace. It is sealed with a polyethylene membrane and connected to a pipe with a fan. The radon vapors are then vented outdoors through the vent pipe.
In addition to vapor barrier barriers, radon mitigation methods include sealing foundation cracks. Although minor cracks are easily fixed, larger ones may require special techniques. The gaps around utility penetrations can also be sealed. Depending on the size and location of these cracks, radon mitigation methods can be highly effective.
Using granular activated carbon can reduce radon levels. This technique should only be used when other mitigation techniques have failed. The recommended action level for radon mitigation is a hundred parts per million of air. This level is much lower than the level of radon in water. To reduce radon levels in a water source, you can use filtration, aeration, or granular activated carbon to clean the water.
Radon mitigation systems should be checked regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. Check the system’s performance by checking the performance indicator, usually a manometer. This indicator measures the flow and pressure in the mitigation system. If the system is functioning properly, you should be able to detect any slight variations in the level of radon.
Another mitigation method is using heat recovery ventilators and energy recovery ventilators to increase ventilation in a home. These systems introduce fresh outdoor air and use heated or cooled air to warm the incoming air. A balanced intake and exhaust airflow are necessary for effective radon mitigation.