The primary sources of indoor radon are analyzed and discussed. These include
soil gas
How does radon get inside your house?
Radon is a radioactive gas. It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your
home traps radon inside
, where it can build up.
What is the source of radon in the air?
Radon comes from
the breakdown of naturally-occurring radioactive elements (such as uranium and thorium)
in soils and rocks. As part of the radioactive decay process, radon gas is produced.
What are the main sources of indoor air pollution?
- Fuel-burning combustion appliances.
- Tobacco products.
- Building materials and furnishings as diverse as: …
- Products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care, or hobbies.
- Central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices.
- Excess moisture.
- Outdoor sources such as:
What is the main source of radon in our houses?
The main source of indoor radon is
radon gas infiltration from soil into buildings
. Rock and soil produce radon gas. Building materials, the water supply, and natural gas can all be sources of radon in the home. Basements allow more opportunity for soil gas entry than slab-on-grade foundations.
Where is radon gas most commonly found?
Radon levels are usually higher in
basements, cellars and living spaces in contact with
the ground. However, considerable radon concentration can also be found above the ground floor.
Is it safe to live in a house with radon?
The EPA states, “Radon is a health hazard with a simple solution.” Once radon reduction measures are in place, home buyers need not worry about the quality of the air in the home. … Since removing radon is relatively simple,
your family will be safe in a home with a radon reduction system in place
.
Where is radon most likely to accumulate in a home?
About one in every 15 homes is thought to have high levels of radon. The highest concentration of radon tends to be found in
the basement or on the first floor
.
How do you get rid of radon in your home?
There’s no single method
that fits all radon removal system needs. Common techniques include: Sub-slab depressurization, where suction pipes are inserted through the floor or concrete slab into the concrete slab below the home. A radon vent fan then draws out the radon gas and releases it into the air outside.
How common is radon in homes?
Radon can enter your home through cracks and holes in the foundation, through well water, and via building materials, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says. It’s common:
About 1 in every 15 homes
has what’s considered an elevated radon level.
What are the 5 main factors that affect indoor air quality?
- Chemicals for intended use or unintentional emissions from different sources.
- Radon.
- Particles.
- Microbes.
- Pets and pests.
- Humidity.
- Ventilation.
- Temperature.
What are the 4 major indoor air pollutants?
The Environmental Protection Agency has noted that
excess moisture, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and radon
are four major indoor air pollutants.
What are the symptoms of poor air quality?
- Dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin.
- Headache.
- Fatigue.
- Shortness of breath.
- Hypersensitivity and allergies.
- Sinus congestion.
- Coughing and sneezing.
- Dizziness.
Is radon only in the basement?
Radon is completely odorless as well as being invisible
. Because it is often found unexpectedly in basements, some people mistakenly believe that it only occurs in basements. This is a dangerous assumption that may damage your ability to protect your home if you are not careful.
Should I worry about radon gas?
Risks, levels and reduction
High levels of radon
can cause lung cancer
, particularly for smokers and ex-smokers. Radon produces tiny radioactive particles in the air we breathe. Radiation from these particles damages our lung tissue, and over a long period may cause lung cancer.
Does opening windows reduce radon?
Opening windows
improves air circulation and ventilation
, helping move radon out of the house and mixing radon-free outside air with indoor air. … Running a window fan in a basement window reduces radon levels, but only if the fan blows air into the basement.
