If your radon level is below 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), it is important to still consider whether or not to mitigate the home. Having a level of 4.0 pCi/L is like smoking 8 cigarettes a day. 2 pCi/L is like smoking 4 cigarettes a day. It is still a good idea to take steps to reduce your radon levels as much as possible. Radon is a known carcinogen and long-term exposure to even low levels of radon can increase your risk of lung cancer.
How to Reduce Radon Levels Below 4.0 pCi/L
Here are some steps you can take to reduce your radon levels if they are below 4.0 pCi/L:
Seal any cracks or openings in your foundation or walls.
Radon gas is a naturally occurring gas that is present in the soil in many areas. It can enter your home through cracks or openings in the foundation or walls, so sealing these can help to prevent radon gas from entering your home. You can use a silicone-based caulk to seal any cracks or openings in your foundation or walls.
Install a Radon Mitigation Systemto Reduce Radon Levels Below 4.0 pCi/L.
If sealing cracks and openings in your foundation or walls is not enough to reduce your radon levels, you may want to consider installing a radon mitigation system. These systems use a ventilation system to remove radon gas from your home and vent it outside. This reduces the levels of radon inside. There are several different types of radon mitigation systems available. These include active soil depressurization systems, passive soil depressurization systems, and sub-slab depressurization systems. A professional radon contractor can help you determine which type of system is best for your home.
Consider having your home tested for Radon again in the future.
Radon levels can vary over time, so it is a good idea to have your home tested periodically to ensure that the levels remain low. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends retesting your home every two to five years. Or if you make any major renovations to your home.
Encourage friends and family to test their homes for radon.
Radon is a naturally occurring gas, and it is present in the soil in many areas. By encouraging others to test their homes, you can help to protect the health of your community. The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon. Test regardless of whether they are new or old, well-sealed or drafty, or located in a high-radon area or a low-radon area. You can purchase a do-it-yourself radon test kit from a hardware store or online. Or you can hire a professional to conduct the test for you. Stick with NRPP certified testing devices.
Test Your Home for Radon, Order a Test Kit
In conclusion, if your radon level is below 4.0 pCi/L, it is still considered to be a health risk. It is a good idea to take steps to reduce your radon levels as much as possible to protect your health and the health of your family. Sealing cracks and openings in your foundation or walls, installing a radon mitigation system, retesting your home periodically, and encouraging others to test their homes are all effective ways to reduce your radon levels. Order a Test Kit today.
