Living in the beautiful mountains of Asheville and Hendersonville comes with many perks, but it also means dealing with elevated radon levels common to our region. Since radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers, radon testing your property is highly recommended. If your results come back high, a radon mitigation system is the proven solution to bring those levels down to a much healthier range for your family.
How Does a Radon Mitigation System Work?
Understanding how a radon mitigation system operates can help you see why it is the most effective way to reduce indoor radon. Instead of simply filtering the air, these systems prevent radon from entering your living spaces in the first place. By creating a continuous vacuum beneath your foundation, the system redirects the hazardous gas outside before it ever seeps into your home. Here is exactly how a typical radon mitigation system gets the job done:
- Sealing entry points: Technicians carefully seal cracks and openings in your foundation to prevent gas from sneaking through and to improve the overall vacuum pressure.
- Creating a suction point: A hole is drilled through the foundation floor to reach the soil below, where the radon gas naturally accumulates.
- Installing PVC piping: Pipes are routed from the suction point up through the house or along the exterior, directing the gas upward.
- Mounting the extraction fan: A specialized fan runs continuously to pull the radon from the soil and vent it harmlessly above the roofline.
Does a Radon Mitigation System Run All the Time?
A radon mitigation system is designed to run continuously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Because radon gas constantly rises from the soil beneath your property, stopping the fan would allow the gas to immediately begin accumulating in your home again. To maintain a healthier indoor environment, the fan must operate without interruption to sustain the necessary vacuum under your foundation.
Fortunately, these specialized fans are highly energy-efficient and draw very little electricity, so you will barely notice an impact on your monthly utility bills. You can easily verify that your radon mitigation system is actively working by checking the u-shaped pressure gauge, known as a manometer, typically mounted on the system’s pipe. As long as the liquid in the gauge is uneven, your system is successfully pulling soil gases away from your living areas.
Can I Install a Radon Mitigation System Myself?
While DIY projects are popular for many home improvements, installing a radon mitigation system requires specialized training, precise diagnostic radon testing, and a deep understanding of building science. Attempting to install a system without professional experience can easily result in an ineffective setup, potentially leaving your family exposed to high radon levels. Hiring a certified radon professional ensures the job is done correctly and effectively. Here are the main reasons why professional installation is highly recommended:
- Accurate diagnostics: Professionals perform specific pressure and airflow tests to determine the exact fan size and suction point locations needed for your unique floor plan.
- Building code compliance: Experts ensure the exhaust points are routed above the roofline and away from windows to prevent gas from re-entering the structure.
- Electrical codes: The specialized exhaust fans must be properly hardwired or plugged in according to strict local and national electrical guidelines.
- Post-mitigation testing: A professional will always verify the radon mitigation system is genuinely bringing levels down to a safer range.
How Long Do Radon Mitigation Fans Last?
The fan is the only moving part of a radon mitigation system, and it is built to be incredibly durable. On average, a high-quality radon fan will last between five and ten years, though many can run effectively for much longer before needing a replacement. Since these fans are designed to operate non-stop under varying weather conditions, they are manufactured with robust, weather-resistant materials.
The lifespan of your fan can be influenced by factors like excessive moisture, extreme temperatures, or power surges. If you ever notice the fan making unusual rattling noises, or if the liquid in your manometer gauge levels out, it may be time for a replacement. Swapping out a malfunctioning fan is a quick and straightforward process for a radon professional, ensuring your radon mitigation system continues to function perfectly.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Radon Mitigation System?
The price of installing a radon mitigation system varies depending on the specific characteristics of your property. Every home is built differently, meaning there is no universally standard price for every project. Because contractors usually assess the layout and foundation type before providing a quote, the final cost will reflect the labor and materials required to effectively reduce your radon exposure. Here are the primary factors that influence the cost of your radon mitigation system:
- Foundation type: Homes with basements, crawlspaces, or concrete slabs each require different installation methods, with crawlspaces often needing specialized vapor barriers.
- System routing: Routing the PVC pipes through the interior of the house typically requires more labor and materials than running them along the exterior siding.
- Home size and layout: Larger footprints or complex foundations might necessitate a more powerful fan or multiple suction points to achieve the proper vacuum.
- Age of the home: Older homes may have tighter soil or dense foundation materials that require extra effort to drill through and seal.
Request Your Free Mitigation Estimate Today
If you recently discovered elevated radon levels in your home, Radon Control Products is here to help. With over 25 years of local experience, our team specializes in designing reliable solutions tailored to your unique property. Let us help you achieve a healthier indoor environment. Contact us today to request a free quote for a customized radon mitigation system in Western North Carolina or Upstate South Carolina.
