Radon Reduction Systems

Radon reduction methods, sometimes called radon mitigation.

There are three main methods of radon reduction when the levels exceed 200 Bq/m3.

The first is the radon sump, this is for houses with a concrete floor laid on hardcore, and can usually be installed externally. A sump system can normally be installed in a day.
The sump is a small void dug under a solid ground floor, to which a pipe and fan are attached. The system limits the amount of radon that enters the house, and for a typical house is by far the most effective method.

For houses with a suspended floor, either concrete or timber, additional air bricks are installed in walls just above ground level, and if the readings are only just over the action level, this may work. Normally a fan is required to overcome the vagaries of wind. The system again limits the amount of radon that enters the house.

A third mechanical system is called positive pressurisation. This is designed to change the air pressure in your house by blowing air in from the loft level. The system both dilutes the radon to acceptable levels, and stops some of it getting in. It can be installed in a day. The system is only considered reliable when readings are below about 600 Bq/m3. The advantage of this system is that it copes with mixed foundations and types of floor construction, and is also more economical to both fit and run. Some manufacturers will give a five year warranty on the fan.

It is sometimes possible to prevent radon entering the property by sealing cracks, but this is unlikely to be effective if you consider that there are cracks beneath skirting boards and behind kitchen units that are not accessible.