Spring is here! Checking your radon system every year is an essential part of ensuring that it is functioning correctly and effectively mitigating radon gas levels in your home. A properly functioning radon mitigation system is critical for your health and safety, as radon gas is a leading cause of lung cancer. To ensure that your radon system is working correctly, follow these steps to check your radon system each year:
Step 1: Locate Your Radon System
The first step in checking your radon system is to locate it. Radon systems are typically located in the basement or crawl space of your home. Look for a plastic that goes through the floor or wall of your basement or crawl space and extends outside or from your attic out the roof. The pipe should be attached to a fan or vent on the outside of your home or in the attic. This fan or vent is used to expel the radon gas outside of your home.
Step 2: Check the Fan
Once you have located your radon system, the next step is to check the fan. The fan is the most critical component of your radon system. It is responsible for pulling the radon gas from beneath your home and expelling it outside. To check the fan, listen for its operation. If you can hear the fan running, it is working correctly. If you do not hear the fan running, you may have a problem with the fan or electrical connection. In this case, you should contact a radon mitigation professional to inspect and repair the fan.
Step 3: Inspect the Vent
After checking the fan, inspect the vent. The vent is the part of the radon system that extends outside of your home and expels the radon gas. Look for any visible damage or obstruction to the vent. Obstructions can include leaves, debris, or even snow or ice. Any damage or obstructions to the vent can prevent the radon gas from being expelled from your home, allowing it to accumulate and potentially cause harm. If you notice any damage or obstructions to the vent, clear them away and ensure that the vent is functioning correctly.
Step 4: Check the Manometer (u-tube)
The manometer is a critical component of your radon system that measures the pressure in the pipe. A properly functioning manometer will indicate that the system is working correctly. The manometer is typically located on the pipe near the fan, in the attic, or near the pit (the beginning of your system in the basement, a lot of times in the utility room). Check the manometer to ensure that the pressure is within the acceptable range. If the pressure is too high or too low, it could indicate a problem with the fan or other components of the system. If the colored oil is a candy cane shape, the fan is working, and if the oil levels are equal, the fan is not working.
Step 5: Test Your Radon Levels
Testing your radon levels is the most effective way to ensure that your radon system is working correctly. Radon levels can change over time, so it is essential to test them regularly. You can purchase a radon test kit at your local hardware store or online. Follow the instructions provided with the test kit to ensure that you obtain an accurate reading of your radon levels. If your radon levels are higher than the acceptable range, contact a radon mitigation professional to inspect and repair your system.
