Do Radon Levels Increase in Winter?

Winterizing Your Home: Why Radon Mitigation is Critical in the 'Ber' Months

The 'ber' months have officially started, many homeowners are busy preparing their homes for colder weather. The term is called ‘Winterizing’ which typically involves sealing up gaps, insulating, and ensuring that the home is cozy and energy-efficient for the winter season. While these efforts are essential, there is one critical aspect of winterizing that often goes overlooked—radon mitigation. 

Is what month is radon the highest?

At this point, we all know that radon is a radioactive gas that can seep into homes through the ground. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels indoors can lead to significant health risks or worse, lung cancer. During these 'ber' months—September, October, November, and December—temperatures drop, and homeowners begin closing their homes to keep warm. This is where the problem arises. When you tightly seal your home for winter, you are also trapping radon gas indoors. 

Exposure to radon is dangerous in the winter when people spend more time inside their homes. The first step is to get your home tested to see your radon levels. According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), homes should be mitigated for radon if the levels are from 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) and above. There is no known “safe level” confirmed either. Radon mitigation is commonly seen as a liability, but it is a health investment.
 

At what temperature does radon freeze? -71' C

At what temperature does radon melt? -71.15' C

Does radon fluctuate with temperature?

The level of radon can commonly be elevated in the warmer months. The reason that radon levels can go up and down in the summer is because of a temperature change. 

Does air conditioning affect radon levels?

Studies find that the use of central air conditioners (ACs) can lower radon levels within a home. When your air conditioner is running, it creates a pressure difference between the inside and outside of your home. This can sometimes pull radon gas up from the soil and into your home. Air conditioning can increase the amount of air circulating in your home, which can dilute radon levels. However, if the air conditioner is not properly sealed or if it is drawing air from a radon detected area, it could actually increase radon levels.

Can you install a radon mitigation system during Winter?

Radon mitigation systems do not just reduce radon levels or focus on health; they can also improve the energy efficiency of your home. By ensuring proper ventilation and reducing air leaks, these systems can help maintain a comfortable indoor environment without relying on excessive heating, ultimately saving you money on energy bills – that’s bang for the buck! 

As you warm your home up for the winter, consider investing in radon testing and mitigation. Peace of mind cannot be bought so while Frosty the Snowman isn’t standing still, check your local National Radon Defense dealers for a radon mitigation system that would tailor fit your home. The best feeling is you can enjoy a cozy winter without worrying about the invisible threat of radon gas. This proactive step will help ensure that you and your family breathe clean, healthy air throughout the cold season and beyond, making your winter warmer, safer, and more comfortable.