Radon mitigation is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Radon is a radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground and accumulate to dangerous levels. Here’s a guide to help you mitigate radon in your home:
- Testing: Start by testing your home for radon levels. You can purchase radon testing kits from hardware stores or hire a professional radon tester. For definitive results, a professional measurement is recommended. Place the testing device in the lowest livable area of your home for accurate results, as radon tends to accumulate in basements and crawl spaces.
- Understanding Results: Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action if levels exceed 4 pCi/L. However, it’s advisable to consider mitigation even if levels are lower, as any exposure to radon poses some risk.
- Mitigation Systems: If radon levels are elevated, consider installing a radon mitigation system. The most common method is a sub-slab depressurization system, which involves installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon from beneath the home and vent it outside. Other methods include sealing cracks in the foundation and improving ventilation.
- Professional Installation: While some homeowners may attempt to mitigate radon themselves, it’s often safer and more effective to hire a professional radon mitigation contractor. Radon Mitigation is a licensed trade in Illinois. They have the expertise and equipment to properly install mitigation systems.
- Regular Testing: After mitigation, it’s essential to periodically retest your home for radon to ensure that levels remain low. Testing every two years is recommended by the EPA, or more frequently if you or a neighbor made significant renovations or changes to your home’s foundation.
By following these steps and staying vigilant about radon levels in your home, you can effectively mitigate this silent but harmful threat.