Introduction
Radon gas is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer when inhaled. If you are concerned about your family’s health, you need to know what to do about radon and how it can affect you. Here are five things you must do if you suspect that your home has high levels of radon:
1. Test Your Home for Radon
If you are worried that your home has high levels of radon, the first thing you should do is test it. Several kits available allow you to perform a simple test at home. These tests will usually take 48 hours and will tell you if there is any danger from radon in your house. If you have found that your home has high levels of radon or suspect the same, it’s important to get it inspected by a professional. They will be able to determine whether or not your house needs radon mitigation Rochester NY and how best to reduce the risk factor.
2. Call An Expert to Inspect It If You Have High Levels
Expert advice can go a long way. If you want to be sure that your home is safe from radon, a professional must inspect it. The EPA recommends installing radon mitigation Rochester NY, systems for all homes with high radon levels. The most common way of reducing radon is through sub-slab depressurisation. This involves drilling holes in the basement floor and pumping out the air from beneath the house so that any radon gas can escape before being inhaled by occupants.
3. Consider Buying a Radon Mitigation System if Necessary
If you find out that your home has high radon levels, it may be time to invest in a mitigation system. The EPA recommends this for all homes with high radon levels, especially if there are children or adults at risk for lung cancer due to smoking or other health conditions. There are three types of mitigation systems: passive, active and semi-active. A passive system uses the natural airflow in a home to reduce radon levels. Active methods involve pumps and fans to bring fresh air from outside the house and vent it out again. Semi-active systems use both pumps and fans.
4. Check Your Home for Other Health Hazards
Radon isn’t the only health hazard in homes. Mould, asbestos and lead are common problems that you must address. Radon is often found in homes with other issues like these because they all have similar sources of moisture and poor ventilation. If you think your home may have any health hazards, talk to an expert about testing and removing them. In addition to radon testing, you should also get a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is an odourless gas that can be dangerous if it builds up in your home. It’s produced as fuel burns, so any combustion appliance—such as boilers or fireplaces—can cause the problem.
5. Consider Moving If You Have High Levels of Radon Gas in Your Home
If you have high levels of radon gas in your home, it’s time to consider moving. The best way to protect yourself from the risk of lung cancer is to move out of your home and into one with lower levels. Once you find a new home, test the air inside and ensure there aren’t any issues with radon levels before signing on the dotted line. If you are planning on selling or renting out your property, consider hiring a professional who can test for this dangerous gas and advise you on how best to reduce levels.
Conclusion
Testing for radon is highly recommended for all kinds of houses. Even if you are in a newly built home, it is important to have the basement tested for radon levels. Let us know if we need to include anything by commenting below.