The issue of radon mitigation systems temporarily clogging due to ice forming on the vent pipe of the radon fan is very common in cold weather climates. The very nature of a radon system pulling damp air from under structural concrete slabs and crawlspace liners creates this issue.
What is the red liquid in a radon mitigation system?
Inches of water column is the amount of pressure inside a pipe. The red oil inside is what you want to focus on. It shows the pressure within the radon vent pipe. You want to make sure the liquid is NOT equal on both sides.
Why is my radon mitigation system gurgling?
I hear a gurgling noise in the radon system. What does this mean? That means that water is not draining away from the suction point. If you have a ground water sump pump, this might mean that you should inspect your sump pump to determine if the sump is working properly.
How do I make my radon system quieter?
The smaller the pipe size drawing air from under the membrane the quieter the air flow noise. To reduce sub-membrane noise, downsize the pipe under the membrane to a 2″ pipe which can move up to 50 cfm or a 1.5 inch pipe that can move up to 35 cfm of air.
How can radon infiltration be prevented?
The easiest approach is to insert one or two pipes into each wall and use fans to draw radon out of the walls and vent it outdoors, or use fans to pressurize the walls to prevent radon entry.
What should my radon gauge look like?
The readout on the manometer should be between 0.5in – 1.75in. In most cases these are acceptable levels indicating, your system is operating correct. When your Radon system is shut off the fluid should rest at zero if it does not then your manometer is low on fluid.
Do radon mitigation fans run constantly?
Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Fans and Radon Mitigation Systems. Does a Radon Fan Run Continuously? Radon fans run continuously and should stay on. It’s important to remember radon fans create a negative pressure underneath the sub slab of your home.
Can a radon pipe freeze?
The condensation inside the pipe can then change forms into ice if the temperature is below freezing consistently. It’s quite common in northern United State and Canada.
Should there be water in my radon mitigation system?
If a swishing or gurgling sound is heard in the radon pipe, then it has partially or even completely filled with condensation. Water from rain, snow, and condensation is normal in any radon system but special measures need to be taken to deal with it.
Why do I hear water in my radon pipe?
The radon pipe gurgle and sound like water because there is water stuck in the pipe or below the pipe . Some houses has very high water , which is collecting under foundation. Radon fan is powerful enough to pull some water into the pipe from below. This bubbles of air and water will make gurgle noise.
Can radon penetrate concrete?
Radon, soil gasses, and water vapor will easily pass through any openings, cracks, gaps, drains, or thin concrete (rat slabs) in the basement.
How do you seal a radon French drain?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: The the air from above the slab into the subfloor area decreasing the performance of the field the pressure underneath the slab therefore the around the perimeter you need to seal.
Does plastic stop radon?
Some builders believe that the plastic vapor barrier under the slab will stop radon. Although it is a part of the “radon-resistant” construction, it merely reduces the flow of soil gas. However, it cannot stop the diffusion of radon and its accumulation underneath the floor.
What is the lifespan of a radon mitigation system?
Most of the system is PVC pipe that has a life expectancy of 50 to 70 years or more, which is essentially the lifespan of the house. Radon mitigation fans have a 5 year manufacturer warranty, although they can run for 20 years or more—as long as the fan is not turned on and off frequently.
How do you know if radon is working?
You can use the u-tube manometer to determine if your system is working. Look at the liquid in the tube. If it is equal on both sides, it is an indication that there is no pressure in the pipe. This means no suction from the fan (far left image) and the radon mitigation system is not working.
What should radon vacuum pressure be?
Your radon mitigation’s manometer readout should be between 0.5in-1.75in on the Manometer (U shaped- looks like a thermometer). This is NOT the level of Radon in your home. It is simply the amount of vacuum your mitigation system is generating.
Will sealing a sump pit reduce radon?
No. Reducing the radon levels in a home by sealing cracks or a sump pit has not proven to be very effective. This is partially due to the radon levels in the soil building up to a higher concentration when the openings are sealed so that less soil air comes in but it comes in with a higher radon concentration.
Do sump pumps let radon in?
Radon found in groundwater can enter your home through the sump pump in your basement. In your home, it is inert, and cannot be smelled, tasted, or seen.
What are symptoms of radon poisoning?
A persistent cough could be a sign that you have radon poisoning.
- Persistent cough.
- Hoarseness.
- Wheezing.
- Shortness of breath.
- Coughing up blood.
- Chest pain.
- Frequent infections like bronchitis and pneumonia.
- Loss of appetite.
How fast can you get radon poisoning?
Radon gas can damage cells in your lungs, which can lead to cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States, though it usually takes 5 to 25 years to develop. Early signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include: persistent cough.
Is it OK to live in a house with radon?
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking. If you smoke and live in a home with high radon levels, you increase your risk of developing lung cancer. Having your home tested is the only effective way to determine whether you and your family are at risk of high radon exposure.
