Do you have a Radon Mitigation system installed? Should you?
First, any radon level poses some health risks. While it is not possible to reduce radon to zero, the best approach is to lower the radon level as much as possible. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the action level at 4 pCi/L (picocuries of radon per liter of air). MDH recommends installing a radon mitigation system when the radon level is at 4 pCi/L or higher.
Many believe once a radon mitigation system is installed, you’ll have no further worries. How do you know if your radon mitigation system is working properly? Did you know, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend your mitigation system be retested every two years?
It’s good practice to retest your home every two years to be sure radon levels remain low. The first way is to regularly check the manometer (U-tube) that should be installed on the pipe of the system.
Why?
Like a furnace, radon reduction systems need some occasional maintenance.
Here are nine reasons to retest, and there may be more:
- Have you renovated or altered your home since it was tested? If you have new windows, new siding, or additional insulation installed or have energy saving, air sealing, these improvements can increase the amount of radon trapped in the home.
- Mitigation fans may last for five years or more and may then need to be repaired or replaced. Manufacturer warranties tend not to exceed five years.
- Fittings may become loose.
- Radon levels can vary significantly between seasons and varied radon levels are to be expected. Generally, radon levels in homes are highest during the coldest part of winter and could be double or more when houses are closed up tight, heating systems are running, and the ground around the house if frozen.
- If your radon test was conducted during rapidly changing or stormy weather or extended periods of heavy rain, the levels may change quite dramatically.
- If sustained winds of 30 or more miles per hour occur during a radon test, the test results should be discarded or have a statement that discredits the validity of the results.
- The humidity levels may affect testing.
- Openings may become clogged.
- Peace of mind that your radon mitigation system is working properly.
For more information on Radon go to the MN Department of Health website.