The threat of exposure to higher levels of radon gas increases in the winter months and a lot of homeowners are unaware of the risk to their safety. Unlike carbon monoxide, does not come from the furnace in your home. That said, having the right equipment, and keeping up with furnace repair in Saratoga, CA can in small part help reduce radon levels inside the home. Here is what you need to know:
What is Radon Gas?
Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the soil all around the United States. Uranium is the source of radon and levels vary from state to state, but also from neighborhood to neighborhood. It seeps up through the ground where it usually enters the atmosphere and eventually becomes diluted. But radon can become dangerous in high concentrations, especially inside a home or in the workplace.
Who is at Risk?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the maximum level of safe radon at 4 picocuries per liter. They estimate that over 6 million homes in the United States have elevated levels of radon. The risk is especially high in winter when homeowners do not open the windows for ventilation. The cold air outside also increases the amount of warm air escaping from the home through vents and drafty windows causing negative pressure. This creates a vacuum inside the home and draws more air up through the soil. Another factor is rain or snow which can prevent radon from naturally escaping through the soil outdoors and results in higher concentrations leaking into the home. A home radon test is the only real way to know if your home is at risk.
What are some Tips for Reducing Radon Levels in the Home?
There are a few things you can do to reduce radon including:
1. Ventilation
It is important to increase airflow inside the home to reduce radon buildup, especially in winter. Even if it is cold out, opening your windows for just a few minutes a day can help improve ventilation. You can also run the fans and vents in your home to help circulate the air.
2. Reduce Depressurization
Because low indoor air pressure is another problem that draws more radon into the home, do what you can to limit negative pressure. That could mean opening a window when you run an exhaust fan or use a wood stove or fireplace.
3. Seal Cracks
Gaps and cracks in the foundation are ways for radon to easily enter the home. It is important to seal cracks in the foundation with epoxy or caulk.
4. Have the Best Equipment
Combustion appliances can possibly contribute to radon in the home, and the HVAC system could push radon to other floors inside the home. Getting a new furnace and keeping up with routine maintenance can help bring down radon levels.
If you need furnace repair in Saratoga, CA before winter then contact the experts at Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning.
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