how to remove radon

5 Easy Steps to Rid Your Home of Radon and Breathe Freely

Are you worried about the dangers of radon in your home? Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into your home from the ground and pose a serious health risk. It’s the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, so it’s crucial to take action if you suspect elevated radon levels in your home.

1. Test Your Home for Radon

The first step to removing radon is to test your home. There are two main types of radon tests:

• Short-term test: This test provides a snapshot of your home’s radon levels over a few days.
• Long-term test: This test measures radon levels over a longer period, usually 90 days or more, giving a more accurate average.

2. Choose a Radon Mitigation System

If your home’s radon levels are above the recommended threshold of 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air), you’ll need to install a radon mitigation system. There are three main types of radon mitigation systems:

• Sub-slab depressurization: This system involves installing a pipe below your home’s foundation to draw radon gas out from under the house.
• Sealing cracks and gaps: Radon can enter your home through cracks and gaps in the foundation, walls, and floors. Sealing these openings can help reduce radon levels.
• Ventilation: Increasing the ventilation in your home by opening windows and doors or installing a radon fan can help dilute radon gas and reduce levels.

3. Install Your Radon Mitigation System

The installation of a radon mitigation system should be performed by a qualified radon mitigation professional. They will assess your home and recommend the most effective system for your needs.

4. Test Your Radon Levels After Mitigation

Once your radon mitigation system is installed, you should retest your home to ensure that radon levels have been reduced to acceptable levels. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and healthy.

5. Maintain Your Radon Mitigation System

Radon mitigation systems generally require minimal maintenance. However, you should have your system inspected and serviced annually by a qualified professional to ensure it is operating properly.

Additional Radon Removal Methods

In addition to the main radon removal methods described above, there are a few other steps you can take to reduce radon levels in your home:

• Use a radon air purifier: These devices can remove radon gas from the air in your home.
• Plant radon-absorbing plants: Certain plants, such as snake plants and peace lilies, have been shown to absorb radon from the air.
• Create a negative air pressure in your home: You can create negative air pressure by using an exhaust fan in your kitchen or bathroom. This will help draw radon gas out of your home.

Why Choose DIY Radon Removal Methods?

There are a few reasons why you might consider DIY radon removal methods:

• Cost: DIY radon removal methods can be much cheaper than hiring a professional.
• Convenience: You can do DIY radon removal methods on your own schedule.
• Flexibility: You can choose the DIY radon removal method that best suits your needs.

However, it’s important to note that DIY radon removal methods may not be as effective as professional radon mitigation. If you have high levels of radon in your home, it is best to hire a professional to install a radon mitigation system.

Conclusion

Radon exposure is a serious health risk, but it can be easily mitigated with the right approach. By following these steps, you can effectively remove radon from your home and create a healthier living environment for yourself and your family.

If you’re interested in learning more about radon, check out our other articles:

• What is Radon?
• How to Test for Radon
• Radon Mitigation Systems: A Complete Guide

FAQ about Radon Removal

What is radon and how does it get into my home?

Radon is a radioactive gas that is naturally occurring in the ground. It can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, crawl spaces, and other openings.

How do I know if I have a radon problem?

The only way to know for sure if you have a radon problem is to test your home. You can purchase a radon test kit at your local hardware store or online.

What are the health risks of radon exposure?

Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. It is estimated that radon exposure causes over 20,000 lung cancer deaths in the United States each year.

What are the benefits of radon removal?

Radon removal can significantly reduce the risk of radon exposure and the associated health risks. Removing radon from your home can also increase the value of your home.

How much does it cost to remove radon from my home?

The cost of radon removal depends on the size of your home and the complexity of the radon removal system. However, most radon removal systems cost between $1,000 and $5,000.

What are the different types of radon removal systems?

The two most common types of radon removal systems are sub-slab depressurization systems and radon fans. Sub-slab depressurization systems are more effective than radon fans, but they are also more expensive.

How can I find a qualified radon removal contractor?

You can find a qualified radon removal contractor by asking for referrals from friends or family, or by searching online. Make sure to choose a contractor who is certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP).

How long does it take to remove radon from my home?

The time it takes to remove radon from your home will depend on the size of your home and the radon levels in your home. However, most radon removal systems will begin to reduce radon levels within a few days.

How can I maintain my radon removal system?

Radon removal systems require very little maintenance. However, you should have your system inspected by a qualified radon professional every year to ensure that it is operating properly.

What if I rent my home?

If you rent your home, you should talk to your landlord about radon testing and removal. Radon exposure is a serious health risk, and it is important to protect yourself and your family.