How Cold Weather Affects Radon Levels and Your Family’s Health
As temperatures drop this winter, your home's radon levels could rise. Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can accumulate in your home, especially when ventilation is reduced during the colder months. Here’s how cold weather impacts radon levels and your home's safety:
Why Radon Levels Can Increase in Winter
1. Homes Are Sealed Tighter
To conserve heat, windows and doors are closed tightly in winter, reducing airflow. This can trap radon inside, leading to higher concentrations.
2. Pressure Changes
Lower outdoor temperatures and changes in atmospheric pressure can increase the amount of radon entering your home, as the pressure difference between the soil and your home draws the gas inside.
3. Heating Systems
Heating systems can affect airflow in your home, potentially increasing radon levels if ventilation isn’t adequate.
Why You Should Test for Radon in Winter
Winter is an ideal time to test for radon. Since homes are sealed up tight, radon can accumulate more easily. Testing is simple and affordable, and it’s the only way to ensure your home is safe.
Impact on Your Radon Mitigation System
If you already have a radon mitigation system, be aware that cold weather can impact its performance. Frozen pipes or reduced fan efficiency may affect your system’s ability to effectively reduce radon. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure your system continues to work throughout the winter.
Protect Your Home This Winter
- Test for Radon: Even if you’ve tested before, winter is a great time to retest and check for changes.
- Maintain Your System: Schedule a winter inspection to ensure your mitigation system is functioning properly.
- Improve Ventilation: Use air exchangers or HRVs to keep fresh air circulating in your home.
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Make sure your foundation and walls are sealed to prevent radon from entering.
At Radon Systems LLC, we’re here to help keep your home safe from radon year-round. Contact us today for radon system maintenance to protect your family this winter.
