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The Ultimate Checklist for Radon Mitigation Maintenance

When it comes to keeping your home safe, there’s one invisible threat many people overlook: radon. This radioactive gas can silently seep into your home, posing serious health risks. Fortunately, radon mitigation systems are designed to protect your household.

However, like any component of a home, these systems need proper upkeep to stay effective. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate checklist for radon mitigation maintenance. By following these steps, you can keep your mitigation system running at its best for a safer, healthier, happier home.

What Is Radon, and How Do You Detect It?

Radon is a natural radioactive gas that’s found in soil and rock. It enters homes through foundation cracks, construction joints, or spaces around service pipes. You can’t see or smell it, but long-term exposure to high radon levels is a common cause of lung cancer.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), around one in 15 homes in the US has elevated radon levels. Testing your home and installing a mitigation system if you discover high radon levels are the first steps toward protecting your health.

If you’ve already set up a mitigation system, that’s a great start. Unfortunately, simply installing the system often isn’t enough. Regular maintenance is essential for ongoing radon mitigation.

How Radon Mitigation Systems Work

Before jumping into the details of maintenance, it’s important to understand how radon mitigation systems function. Most systems rely on active soil depressurization, which involves a radon fan and a series of PVC pipes that are installed in the foundation floor of your home. The PVC pipe reaches through the concrete slab and into the soil below the foundation. These components create a vacuum that prevents radon from entering your home.

Plus, the added airflow from the fan redirects residual radon gas that’s beneath your home and vents it outside through the exhaust pipe. This system decreases indoor levels of radon if the fan functions properly. Depending on the condition of your foundation, the mitigation process might also involve sealing cracks or filling in gaps around pipes.

If your home has a crawl space rather than a basement, you may need a sub-membrane depressurization system instead. This system is like active soil depressurization but with the addition of plastic sheeting. A PVC pipe that’s installed in the floor of the crawl space connects to a fan that draws radon out of your home. To form a vacuum seal, the plastic sheeting must be airtight.

On the left, a house drawing has the word "Radon" and arrows below it. On the right, a magnifying glass reads "Radon Rn 86."

While these systems are effective, they’re not “set-it-and-forget-it” solutions. Each type of radon mitigation system has specific maintenance requirements. Neglecting these can lead to system failure, leaving your home and your health at risk.

The Ultimate Checklist for Radon Mitigation Maintenance

Keeping your radon mitigation system in top shape doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Breaking it down into regular tasks makes the job much more manageable. With this ultimate checklist for radon mitigation maintenance, you’ll know exactly what to focus on and when.

Monthly Tasks

It’s important to check your system’s visible components every 30 days or so.

  • Manometer: This gauge is shaped like a U and measures the pressure inside your mitigation system. Attached to the PVC pipe, typically near the fan, the manometer keeps the system fan functioning properly. If the liquid in the manometer shows no pressure difference (i.e., it’s the same on both sides), that’s a sign your fan is not working correctly.
  • Radon warning device: Many radon systems also have an alarm or warning device to alert you if there’s a system failure. These devices often flash or beep. If it’s not a hardwired alarm and it isn’t working, you may need to replace the battery.
  • Exterior vent pipe: Take a quick walk around the exterior of your home to check that the vent pipe is free from obstructions. Bird nests, leaves, or even snow can block the airflow, which stops the system from venting radon gas. Clear anything that could obstruct airflow immediately.

Biannual or Annual Maintenance

Once or twice a year, conduct a more thorough inspection of your radon mitigation system, focusing on these tasks:

  • Inspect the fan: Check the fan for unusual sounds or reduced airflow. These signs may indicate it’s time to replace it. You can find replacement fans through radon specialists or directly from radon fan manufacturers.
  • Retest radon levels: Test your home’s radon levels at least every two years, even if your system works correctly. Continuous monitoring devices or short-term test kits will give you accurate results. A spike in radon levels could signal that your system isn’t as effective as it should be.
  • Inspect caulking and seals: Check for new cracks or gaps around your basement foundation or crawl space. Over time, minor wear and tear can open gaps that allow radon to seep into your home. Replace damaged seals to maintain peak effectiveness.
A magnifying glass reads "Indoor Air Quality" against a blurred background of a residential living room.

Extra Tips for a Healthy Home Environment

Maintaining a radon mitigation system is a big step toward a healthier home, but why stop there? There are other ways to make your living space even more comfortable and safe.

One easy way to increase natural airflow in your home is by opening windows more frequently. Proper circulation reduces radon buildup and improves indoor air quality. Plus, while you’re testing your home for radon, it’s a good opportunity to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries.

You should also pay attention to your home’s foundation. Sealing cracks, gaps, and joints mitigates radon and prevents moisture accumulation, which can lead to structural issues or mold.

Why Proactive Radon Mitigation Maintenance Is Essential

Owning a home comes with its share of responsibilities, but a few proactive steps can make all the difference when it comes to your family’s safety. With the tips and tactics we recommended in this guide, you’ll stay ahead of potential issues and keep your radon mitigation system functioning as intended.

Regular system upkeep is an investment in your peace of mind, as you’re taking an active role in safeguarding your home.