Radon mitigation system questions

Radon mitigation systems are designed to significantly reduce radon gas and your risk for radon-induced lung cancer. This is done through two similar processes: Sub-Slab Depressurization (for homes with slab foundations) and Sub-Membrane Depressurization (for homes with crawlspaces). 

Sub-slab depressurization (most common)

A suction pit or pits are created by drilling a hole through the basement floor or slab and removing approximately three five-gallon buckets of dirt. A pipe is inserted into the hole, extending through the home to an outdoor exhaust point where the gas is quickly diluted. A fan is installed on the pipe to create negative pressure beneath the slab, preventing radon from entering the home. 

Sub-membrane depressurization (homes with crawlspaces)

This method is typically used in buildings with crawlspaces. A vapor barrier or membrane is installed on the crawlspace floor to prevent radon gas from seeping into the home. A pipe and fan are then installed to create negative pressure beneath the membrane, similar to the sub-slab depressurization method. The radon gas is drawn out and vented safely outside.

Your radon mitigation system requires very little maintenance. There are just two basic things to do:

1. Occasionally check the system’s airflow gauge (a manometer) to ensure the fan is running. 
2. Listen for irregular noises (clanking or loud whirring).  Your radon fan has a 5-year manufacturer warranty. While most fans will last longer, contact us if you hear irregular noises. 

You can perform some maintenance tasks, while others require our professional assistance. Checking the manometer, reattaching it if it were to fall off, listening for irregular noises, and keeping the system clear of debris are all tasks you can do. Replacing the fan, re-routing the pipes, and changing any of the components need to be done by us to maintain the warranty.

No. The system has a manometer that indicates how much air is flowing, but it does not provide the radon level. The radon level can be determined by using a short-term, long-term, or continuous test. 

Yes. It is recommended to test your home one week after the installation and then every two years after that.

No. It is critical that you run the fan 24/7 to ensure radon gas isn’t entering your home.

The only ongoing expense of a radon mitigation system is the electricity used to power the fan. The cost depends on many factors like fan size, soil type, and the number of fans installed. For a typical one-fan system, the cost should be between $50 to $100 per year (about the same cost to run a 75-watt light bulb 24/7). 

Your radon system includes two separate warranties: 

1. Fan warranty: Your fan has a 5-year manufacturer warranty. It will typically last much longer (usually 10 years or more). If the fan fails within the 5-year warranty period, we will replace it at no cost. After the 5-year warranty expires, we will replace the fan at a cost. 
2. System warranty (everything else minus the fan): Check the warranty information for your specific home on the mitigation quote we provided you with. If your system has a warranty, it is a lifetime warranty. This means we will do anything within reason to repair or replace the system at either no, or some cost, depending on the specifics of your individual warranty. 

Yes! The warranty is attached to the home, not the homeowner. 

When considering the configuration of the discharge line for a radon system, the largest considerations are maximizing airflow and avoiding restrictions. For these reasons, it is not only acceptable but preferable to have the discharge line terminate straight up with no elbows or screens that could restrict the flow or lessen the system's effectiveness. Radon fans are designed to encounter moisture and water. They are designed with a sealed bearing system and are UL-approved for wet conditions. It is not uncommon for radon systems to both pull up water or moisture from beneath the slab and to have water drain down through the system from either rain or condensation in the winter months. These considerations are designed into the fan and will not lessen the life of the fan in any way.