Radon resistant new construction, also called RRNC, is a growing focus for new homes. These construction practices help control radon gas entry before a home is finished. A passive radon system is installed during the building process and uses the natural airflow of the home to reduce radon entry without a fan. This approach saves energy and is usually more affordable than retrofitting a system later.
Below is everything you need to know about passive radon systems, how they work, and why testing still matters.
What does a passive radon mitigation system installation look like for a new construction home?
Our certified radon technicians recently installed a passive radon system in a new home in Kiowa, Colorado. Including this system during construction gives the homeowner a strong start toward a safer indoor environment.
The installation includes a vent pipe from beneath the foundation that rises through the home and vents above the roofline. When the home warms and air rises, natural airflow helps pull soil gases up and out of the structure.
Continue to Test for Radon After a Passive Radon System Installation
There are several factors that can influence indoor radon levels including geological or environmental changes and seasonal variability. We recommend testing your air at home at least every 2 years with or without a mitigation system to ensure any outside influences haven’t impacted your indoor radon level.
We have encountered cases where we visit homes to activate passive radon systems installed during the home’s construction to discover that the proper RRNC techniques were not followed.
Some of the issues we have found include incorrect PVC pipe sizes, unsealed cracks, improper pipe routes, all of which could put you at risk of radon exposure. Many homeowners are unaware. They were informed that their newly built home comes equipped with a radon system, leading them to believe they are protected.
Unfortunately, this can create a false sense of security, and many homeowners may not even test for radon gas assuming the system is functioning effectively. Just because your passive mitigation system is brand new along with the rest of your home, doesn’t mean that it is working to effectively reduce your radon levels.
Without the correct implementation of radon-resistant new construction techniques, homeowners may only have what appears to be an ineffective pipe labeled as a “radon system” in their basement. It’s crucial to address these issues to ensure the safety of residents and educate them on the importance of proper radon mitigation measures.
How Passive Radon Mitigation Works
Passive radon systems rely on air pressure differences inside the home. Warm air rises and creates an upward flow. This natural movement can create a slight vacuum on the foundation. When a passive system is installed correctly, this upward pull helps move radon gas from beneath the slab through the vent pipe and out above the roof.
It is important to work with licensed and certified radon professionals. A poorly designed system can fail to reduce radon and may even make radon entry worse. No matter what type of system you have, testing is the only way to confirm your radon level.
Test your radon levels every one to two years. Test in both heating and cooling seasons to understand how radon changes throughout the year.
If you are building a new home:
- Educate yourself about the dangers of radon gas.
- Learn about the existing RRNC guidelines.
- Ask your builder if they are RRNC educated.
- Insist that a certified radon mitigation company such as Protect Environmental installs the passive radon system.
- Document the system installation, take photos and ask questions.
- Make certain to test the home for radon gas after the build is complete.
- If radon levels are above the EPA recommendations activate the passive radon system with a radon fan and test again.
If you live in a home with a passive radon mitigation system:
- Test for radon gas at least every two years.
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Check your foundation for cracks and seal any new openings
- Call your local radon contractor to inspect the system design.
- Do not assume that you are protected from radon if you haven’t performed a radon test.
I have a passive radon system and elevated radon levels - what do I do?
Your passive radon system may be installed properly, yet it’s still possible to get elevated radon levels. Because your home was built with the infrastructure to mitigate for radon, activation of your system is quick and relatively easy.
Call your local certified radon mitigation contractor to activate your system. If your system is up to code, this just requires a fan and electrical hookup! Once activated, a follow-up radon test can determine that your levels are reduced.
Passive radon mitigation is a great way to reduce radon gas if the system is installed correctly. They can be easily activated if radon levels remain high and are nicely hidden within the home. These systems may help reduce lung cancer risk for you and your family but always be certain that the passive system was installed correctly and is working properly. If you need help inspecting a passive radon system or testing your home for radon, contact the licensed professionals at Protect Environmental.
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