What is the average radon level in a home?
about 1.3 pCi/L
Should I buy a house that has radon?
In fact, because radon levels almost always can be reduced, they shouldn’t prohibit a sale, notes the National Radon Program Service at Kansas State University: “As long as the issue is resolved in the real estate transaction, the radon level should not be a deterrent to buying any home.”
How do I get rid of radon in my home?
In some cases, radon levels can be lowered by ventilating the crawlspace passively (without the use of a fan) or actively (with the use of a fan). Crawlspace ventilation may lower indoor radon levels both by reducing the home’s suction on the soil and by diluting the radon beneath the house.
Does radon affect home value?
It does the job. Having an active Radon mitigation system in one’s house does not adversely affect the home’s resale value and since Radon is so easily controlled once it’s detected it is no reason not to buy the property if all other factors line up favorably for buying the house.
How long does radon mitigation last?
Fans may last for five years or more (manufacturer warranties tend not to exceed five years) and may then need to be repaired or replaced. Replacing a fan will cost around $200 – $350 including parts and labor. It is a good idea to retest your home at least every two years to be sure radon levels remain low.
Does a dehumidifier get rid of radon?
No, buying a dehumidifier will not make radon go away. Radon must be removed by a remediation method like active soil depressurization (ASD), which ironically has been shown to be even more effective at removing humidity from a home than a dehumidifier in the same EPA study.
Does buyer or seller pay for radon mitigation?
“The seller usually pays for the mitigation and any retesting. Radon in most cases can be mitigated to an acceptable level, but seek the advice of a radon mitigation specialist if you have questions or concerns.” 7.
Do fans reduce radon?
One of the most effective systems for reducing the concentration of radon gas is a ceiling fan. These can generally be installed by the homeowner for a minimal cost. For a fifty-percent reduction of radon gas, a ceiling fan can be used alone without the positive ion generator.
WHO recommended radon levels?
A generally accepted action level established by the World Health Organization, the WHO, is 100 Bq/m3, or 2.7 pCi/L. Homes or structures measuring higher are advised to take remedial action to lower radon levels. The WHO further advises an upper limit that should not be exceeded at 300 Bq/m3, or 8 pCi/L.
Does Radon make you cough?
Possible symptoms include shortness of breath (difficulty breathing), a new or worsening cough, pain or tightness in the chest, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing. If you smoke and you know you’ve been exposed to high levels of radon, it’s very important to quit smoking.
Can a HEPA filter reduce radon?
HEPA Filters A HEPA filter is a high-efficiency particulate arrester that can remove almost all but not all particles from indoor air. However, HEPA filters can’t remove radon itself since it’s a gas. Air filtration and ventilation can help if you can pinpoint the source of radon seeping in.
Will opening windows reduce radon?
Opening windows improves air circulation and ventilation, helping move radon out of the house and mixing radon-free outside air with indoor air. Opening basement windows helps reduce negative air pressure, diluting radon with clean outdoor air.
How long does it take for radon to cause cancer?
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.
Is a radon inspection worth it?
When you breathe air containing radon, you increase your risk of getting lung cancer. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high. You Should Test for Radon. Testing is the only way to find out your home’s radon levels.
What is the acceptable limit for radon?
According to Health Canada, the acceptable level of radon in the average home is 200 becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq/m³), while the World Health Organization sets the acceptable level at 100 becquerels per cubic metre (100 Bq/m³).