A BASIC UNDERSTANDING
Radon is a radioactive, invisible, and odorless gas that comes from the ground, the level of which is proven to fluctuate daily. It is just one of many factors that impact the air quality in our homes. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, killing approximately 21,000 people in the United States every year.
Areas of little airflow is where radon can build up to dangerous high levels. Modern buildings are often well insulated and airtight to save energy, but long-term radon exposure can occur in buildings where ventilation is poor. Radon gas enters a home or workplace from the ground through foundation cracks and holes for pipes or wires. A building without sufficient ventilation will then trap that radon gas at potentially dangerous levels.
The Environmental Protection Agency has set 4 pCi/L as the accepted action level standard for residential properties. Homes measuring higher are advised to take remedial action to lower radon levels. Two-thirds of all homes in the US are estimated to exceed the recommended action level.
There are multiple ways to test how much radon gas is being trapped in a home. One-time testing kits are available for relatively little expense. However, that test only gives one data point and radon levels change over time as they are impacted by weather, how high the water table is, etc. Another option for testing is to use a continuous monitoring solution. Data from long periods of time is more meaningful because abnormal fluctuations are easy to spot.
To gain full-time peace of mind about the long-term exposure of radon to your family, one-time spot checks are not enough. Continuous monitoring of radon levels is necessary. We now have smart technology that can consistently measure and monitor a home's air quality. Implementing this technology will provide the data necessary to understand if radon remediation steps should be taken in your home. To begin monitoring the air quality of your home - contact Smart Home Solutions today at 978-969-0496!
Smart Home Solutions LLC is prepared to assist you in implementing technology that will continuously monitor the air quality in your home. We also offer what is called a Smart Home Assessment service which includes a discussion about radon detection and remediation. The Smart Home Assessment is an opportunity to develop a comprehensive roadmap to guide you along the journey to achieving ‘peace of mind’ as your home gets smarter. Contact Smart Home Solutions LLC to schedule your Assessment.
