EcoSpect, Inc. Basement Solutions
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Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Gas Testing or Mitigation in Syracuse, Ithaca & Binghamton NY
What is an acceptable level of radon?
While there are no "safe" levels for sustained radon exposure, the EPA recommends considering mitigation at levels of 2.0-3.9 pCi/l and considers levels of 4.0 pCi/l or higher to be an action level to require mitigation.
How do I test my home?
An EPA certified Radon Testing Company will place either an Activated Charcoal Canister or Electronic Radon Monitor in your home for a minimum of 48 hours and submit the testing to a laboratory for results.
How often should I test my home?
EPA guidelines state a home should be tested every two years. This because changes in the passageways in soil (high water, construction, weather conditions etc.) as well as changes in the building condition (energy improvements) can cause radon levels in the home to vary and change.
My neighbor has high level (low level) results. Should I have a test conducted?
Every home is different. What your neighbor’s test results are should be irrelevant. There are areas of New York that historically have high radon levels (Cortland County and Yates County are two), but it is our opinion that every home should be tested to confirm the radon gas levels.
My home is brand new (very old) why would I need a test done?
The terrific weatherization options now available for a home may actually be worse for dealing with radon gasses. Because the home is so efficiently sealed any gasses that enter are essentially trapped. Whereas older homes with loose caulking, ill-fitting doors and windows and poor insulation actually allow the radon gasses to dissipate.
What is the average installation cost?
There are several factors that can contribute to cost such as slab condition, composition of soil under slab, crawlspace vs full basement.
How does a system work?
A Radon Mitigation System works by depressurizing the area underneath a basement slab or vapor barrier. The system draws the radon polluted air out of the house and expels the gas above the roof line with the use of a Radon Approved Fan.
How long does it take to install a radon mitigation system?
A typical installation takes a single day to complete, however, there are instances where a second day is needed.
How will the installation change the ‘face’ of my home?
We do our best to keep the aesthetics of the home intact. If it is possible we run the PVC piping alongside a chimney, keep the piping in the rear of the home or by painting the PVC to match the home’s color.
What is the maintenance requirements after installation?
There is no maintenance with a radon mitigation system. There are just two ‘moving parts’ to a radon mitigation system – the fan (which has a 5 year warranty) and a manometer. The manometer is a u-shaped glass tube filled with a liquid (colored for easy reading) to measures pressures. The liquid levels of the manometer should not be level but offset. If they are level the system is not working and you should contact your installer. If the fan is not working you should contact your installer.
If you are in need of radon gas testing or mitigation services in Syracuse, Ithaca & Binghamton NY, call 315-232-6465 or go to our contact us page today for a FREE ESTIMATE!
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