Radon resistant new construction (RRNC) is quickly becoming a hot topic for new homes and buildings. Radon resistant new construction techniques control radon gas entry through the installation of a passive radon mitigation system. Passive radon systems can help to prevent radon gas entry without the use of an activated radon vent fan. These systems are more economical for consumers as the cost to include installation in the consutruction of their new home is typically less compared to retrofitting applications. Also, compared to active radon systems, there are great electrical and heat energy savings. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about passive radon systems!
What does a passive radon mitigation system installation look like for a new construction home?
As certified radon technicians, we helped our client in Kiowa, Colorado install a passive radon mitigation system for her new home! Taking this proactive step during her construction project will help ensure her family has a safe place to breathe.
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 mitigation systems rely on the principles of building science and air pressure to mitigate the home. The natural stack effect explains how air pressure impacts air flow within a building. Warm air rises, cold air falls, and the interaction between warm and cool air causes air flow that can apply a vacuum pressure on the foundation and draws air in from outisde of the building.
In newly built homes, passive radon systems can be installed to utilize the structure’s stack effect to mitigate soil gas from below the foundation and out above the roofline.
It’s critical to work with professionals who are certified and licensed to install passive radon systems. Whether it’s a passive or active mitigation system, this remains true: a system installed incorrectly could actually be contributing to higher radon levels in your home.
As always, the only way to know your radon levels (mitigation system or not) is to test. If your new construction has a passive mitigation system installed, test your radon levels every year to two years and be sure to test in both the heating and cooling seasons to get a more full picture of the radon risk in your home.
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.
- Inspect your foundation for new cracks/radon entry points and seal them.
- 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.
Test My Home!
Professional radon testing is the first step to making your home a safe place to breathe.
