Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. Air pressure inside your home is usually lower than pressure in the soil around your home’s foundation. Because of this difference in pressure, your home acts like a vacuum, drawing radon in through foundation cracks and other openings, sometimes to very high concentrations. Any home may have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements; and is especially problematic in basements. For this reason, regular radon testing is key whether you’re a homeowner, or you’re interested in purchasing a home.
The image above shows several ways radon enters a home.
DOES RADON POSE A HEALTH RISK?
You cannot see, smell, or taste radon. If present in your home, it may pose a danger to you and your family's health because radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. As they break down further, these particles release small bursts of energy. This can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer over the course of your lifetime. According to the EPA, radon is one of the leading contributors to the development of lung cancer, behind only smoking.
HOW IS RADON MEASURED?
The amount of radon in the air is measured in “picocuries per liter of air,” or “pCi/L.” According to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services the results of more than half of radon tests in the state are at or above the action level of 4.0 pCi/L. The following map compares average radon levels in Nebraska counties by using data through 2013. Note that homes with elevated radon levels were found in all zones. Regardless of geographic location, all homes should be tested for radon.
WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE IF MY RADON LEVELS ARE AT THE ACTION LEVEL?
There are several proven methods to reduce radon in your home, but the one primarily used is a vent pipe system and fan, which pulls radon from beneath the house and vents it to the outside. This system, known as a soil suction radon reduction system, does not require major changes to your home. Sealing foundation cracks and other openings makes this kind of system more effective and cost-efficient. Similar systems can also be installed in houses with crawl spaces. Radon contractors can use other methods that may also work in your home. The right system depends on the design of your home and other factors. Consult with your local health department to find a qualified radon mitigation company in your area. The following image shows a typical radon system.
For more information about radon, please refer to the EPA's guide: A Citizen’s Guide to Radon For more information on radon reduction, please refer to the EPA's guide: Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction: How to Fix Your Home
Comments