Radon-Rid, LLC Answers the Question: Is DIY Radon Remediation a Good Idea?

Radon testing can be done fairly easily and reliably with a kit, either by a homeowner or a radon testing company. However, once a homeowner becomes aware that his/her home is testing at high radon levels, we recommend calling a professional radon remediation specialist. So many factors are involved when determining the right type of mitigation system, and a skilled, trained professional will save you time, money and worry in the long run. At Radon-Rid, LLC, we guarantee our work too.

Recently, we became aware that a local big box hardware store is making radon fan kits available to homeowners with advanced DIY skills in both plumbing and electrical tasks. The average homeowner may mistakenly think this kit will definitely solve their particular radon issue. This kit is specifically designed for homes that already have all of the piping installed during construction of the home and have a porous substrate underneath the slab (crushed stone): which means basically for newer construction homes, NOT older homes pre-1970’s, that may have dirt/clay underneath the slab. Three basic types of radon fans exist: high-volume low-pressure fans, high-pressure low-volume fans and the “happy medium fan.”

The high-volume low-pressure fan is designed to move lots of air while creating very little vacuum (used on newer construction homes that have a VERY porous substrate with no restrictions to the air flow under the slab. The high-pressure low-volume fan is designed for dirt/clay applications, usually found in older homes and designed to create very high vacuum instead of pulling air (vacuum is very different than air flow). Lastly, you have the “happy medium fan.” This one is used most often on newer construction homes that don’t have a super porous substrate underneath the slab.

Fan sizing should be done onsite after all of the piping is in place and all openings in the slab have been made air-tight. Each fan has an optimal operation pressure and if improperly sized, could lead to premature failure of the fan or insignificant air flow/suction.

Radon remediation systems should only be installed by a certified and well-educated contractor. DIY projects are great and we are big supporters of them, but homeowners should leave the projects that deal with potential health issues to the professionals.

Radon-Rid, LLC Provides Experienced and Guaranteed Radon Inspection and Testing

Radon remediation systems provide an effective means of removing radon or reducing the gas to acceptable, safe levels. However, the safety factor is only present when the proper system is chosen for home. Radon-Rid, LLC’s professional and state certified radon inspectors have experience with all of these factors, and will ensure that your system is doing the job you want: making your home safe for you and your family. Contact us today for information about our services.