A passive radon system is a nonelectric mitigation method that uses natural air pressure to vent radon gas from a home. Radon gas is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers, so taking steps to reduce radon in your property is vital to minimize your risk.
How a Passive Radon Mitigation System Works
Passive radon mitigation systems work in a similar way to active soil depressurization systems. They use a pipe that runs from the foundation to the roof to vent radon gas. The difference is that there is no fan, electricity or moving parts. Instead, warmer air in the pipe rises, drawing radon gas up from the soil naturally.
How to Install a Passive Radon System
Passive systems are typically installed during the new construction of radon-ready homes. According to the EPA, an effective passive radon mitigation system design includes these key components:
- Sub-slab layer: With a 4-inch layer of gravel or aggregate beneath the concrete slab or foundation, radon gas can move beneath the house rather than enter living spaces.
- Sheeting: A layer of 6 mil polyethylene sheeting on top of the gravel helps to reduce radon movement into the property.
- Vent pipe installation: A sealed PVC pipe runs vertically from the sub-slab layer through the interior of the home and extends through the roof.
- Foundation sealing: Sealing openings and cracks in the foundation and walls is necessary to minimize radon entry points.
- Future-proofing: A junction box in the attic allows the system to be upgraded with a fan if necessary.
Is a Passive System the Right Choice for Your Property?
Passive mitigation is a strong fit if you’re building in an area with historically low to moderate radon levels and want a low-maintenance, preventive safeguard. With no fan, no electricity draw and no operating noise, this type of system stays out of the way while protecting your home. Installing passive radon systems during new construction can reduce costs compared to retrofitting.
When to Upgrade to an Active System
Test passive systems at least every two years. If your property’s radon level is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, you may need to upgrade to an active radon mitigation system.
Activating a passive radon reduction system is straightforward with SWAT Environmental. We can review your existing system and add a specialized fan to your pipework. This is a cost-effective way to increase your radon mitigation.
Your Partner for All Radon Solutions
Here’s why you can rely on SWAT Environmental for radon remediation:
- Unrivaled expertise: We are the largest provider of total radon solutions in the country. Our team has installed hundreds of thousands of radon reduction systems, including passive radon system activations.
- National reach and certified compliance: As your single-source vendor for new construction projects, we deliver consistent, certified radon solutions nationwide. Every project meets critical Appendix F or Radon-Resistant New Construction compliance standards.
- Hassle-free scheduling: We can work around your deadlines and provide ongoing, responsive support when you need it.
Find the Ideal Radon Reduction Solutions for Your Property
Whether you need to install a new passive system or activate your current one, our team is ready to help you. Call 1-800-NO-RADON or submit our quick quote form now.
1-800-NO-RADON