Understanding Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and radioactive gas that forms naturally from the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other entry points. Long-term exposure to high radon levels is a leading cause of lung cancer and other health issues, making radon testing a critical step in home safety.
Why Winter is the Best Time for Radon Testing
While radon can be present in homes year-round, testing during winter is especially important due to several factors:
- Closed-Home Conditions
- During winter, windows and doors remain shut for long periods, reducing ventilation. This traps radon inside and allows it to accumulate to higher levels than during warmer months when homes are more ventilated.
- Stack Effect
- The “stack effect” occurs when warm indoor air rises and escapes through the upper levels of a home, creating lower pressure in the basement and ground floors. This pressure difference pulls radon from the soil into the home, increasing exposure risks.
- Frozen Ground and Snow Cover
- When the ground is frozen or covered with snow, radon is less likely to disperse into the outdoor air. Instead, it follows the path of least resistance—often into homes through foundation cracks and gaps.
- Longer Indoor Exposure
- In colder months, people spend more time indoors, increasing the duration of radon exposure. This prolonged contact with elevated radon levels raises the potential health risks.
How to Test for Radon
Testing for radon is simple and highly accurate. SWAT Environmental can help you test your home or business. You can contact us at 1-800-NO-RADON or click here to order a free test kit to be sent to your home. Our trained experts can walk you through the process and answer all your questions.
What to Do if Radon Levels are High
If radon levels exceed 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends mitigation. Common solutions include:
- Sealing Cracks and Gaps to reduce radon entry points.
- Installing a Radon Mitigation System, such as a vent pipe and fan, to redirect radon safely outside. SWAT Environmental is the nation’s largest, most experienced radon mitigation firm and can design a solution to safely reduce your radon levels.
- Improving Ventilation in basements and crawl spaces
Conclusion
Winter provides the most accurate conditions for detecting radon buildup in homes. By testing during the colder months, homeowners can identify potential risks and take action to ensure a safer indoor environment. With a simple radon test through SWAT Environmental, you can protect your family’s health and reduce the risk of lung cancer caused by prolonged radon exposure.