August 13th, 2012 11:46 PM by Dan Howard
If a system is installed, can we be sure that the radon is safe?
This has a surprising answer. Simply put, no! We have found improperly installed or modified so as to not operate. When a mitigator installs a system in PA, they are required to test the home for radon within 30 days of completion of the system. Due diligence starts with reviewing that test and make decisions based upon those results and the testing method.
Are there any additional benefits to installing a radon system?
As a matter of fact, yes. The radon system works by removing gases under the slab. That will include water vapor, thereby reducing moisture in the home. In areas over mines, there is often CO venting up through the home. That would be removed. If there is an interior French drain, mold can live in the sump area and the mold will be vented to the exterior.
The house has been shut up for a year, does that mean the radon will be much higher that if it was lived in?
No, radon is a relatively unstable element. It has a ½ life of about 3.8 days. Statistical equilibrium occurs at close to 12 hours. At 3.8 days radioactive decay is perking along and the rate of radon venting into the home are about what it is going to be a 3.8 months or 3.8 years. Because of the decay process, we do not collect a bunch of extra radon in a home because it is closed up.