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How Does a Radon Removal System Work?

Radon is a toxic radioactive gas that is hazardous to human health, with risks that include lung cancer. It can enter your home by seeping in from the ground, where it is created by decaying uranium existing in surface soil.

  1. Testing for Radon

    • Radon testing is done via a machine that is placed in the basement or crawlspace. If your home has excessive radon, a removal system can be installed to reduce it.

    Interior and Exterior Mitigation

    • An interior mitigator, or removal system, pumps the radon-contaminated air out of your home through a plastic pipe attached to an electric pump and fan mounted in the attic. The pipe, hidden behind the walls, is attached to a roof vent, and the contaminated air pumped outside and diluted. The pump runs continuously, bringing interior radon levels down. Exterior systems work the same way, except the hardware is mounted to the outside of the home.

    Energy Recovery and Ventilation

    • An energy recovery and ventilation mitigator pumps a constant flow of fresh, outside air into the home, forcing the stale air out and thus diluting radon concentrations to a healthy level.

    Crawlspace Barriers

    • A special plastic barrier to help minimize radon seepage is installed on the crawlspace floor. It can be used in conjunction with an interior or exterior mitigation system.

    Contamination Levels

    • Radon levels should be no higher than 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). According to the EPA, levels less than 4 pCi/L can often be lowered further. Lower radon levels lower the health risks.

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