Far too many people think radon systems last forever.  I get calls like this every week: “uh, yeah I need a new radon pump.  It died.”  “When?”  I ask.  “I don’t know, it’s been dead since we moved in in 2006.” Long pause while we contemplate the carcinogen exposure over 15+ years.  “Let’s get you a radon test and an NRPP certified mitigator!”

Have you checked for RED FLAGS yet?  Red flags are a sure sign you should hire a certified pro to fix your system.  CLICK HERE to view the most common RED FLAGS

If you read this blog, you know that the easiest way to avoid dead fans and reduce your lung cancer risk is to test for radon every two years, as recommended by the US EPA.  A digital continuous radon monitor is NOT a replacement for a laboratory test (read why here)

After that, here are some tips for continuing radon system maintenance:

First, check the U tube. We devoted a whole video to this on our YouTube channel. A U tube manometer is a pressure gauge (named for its shape). It reads how much pressure is in the system using “inches of water column.” This is NOT a radon level.  The only “bad” readings on a U tube is zero, equal lines, or max pressure (fan specific).  See my article about radon fan curves for more information. The big thing to watch for is a zero or even reading. Next you want to see if there have been any major changes in pressure. Pressure drops indicate leaks or a dying fan. A significant pressure drop could mean your crawlspace barrier ripped or your PVC pipe is loose. Pressure increases typically mean the system is jammed with something. Did it rain recently?  Has the water table risen? Have you checked your pipe for debris?  

Speaking of rain, do you have any check valves or one way valves?  Dranjer, EZ flow, Volcano or otherwise.  You should be using a shop vac to clean any debris from them semi-annually.  EZ flows pop right out with a small tool to make this easier.  One way valves are often found in window well drains (which should be cleaned the most often), interior floors (like mechanical rooms), sump lids, or sometimes on a crawlspace vapor barrier itself (if the area is prone to flooding).  It can also be a good idea to run a gallon or two of water down some of these to ensure they’re working and haven’t dried out.  Certain drains go to sewers and can get stinky if the pea trap dries out.

Back to pressure drops, since they often indicate a malfunctioning radon system, new standards now require an audible alarm for radon systems. These alarms do not detect radon, but they detect pressure drops (like a dead fan). See our featured products page for radon system alarms!  Read about why alarms are so important here.

After checking your U tube, you’ll want to ensure you have no leaks in the system. You can use a smoke bottle to test for rips in crawlspace barrier or sump lids that you cannot see with the naked eye. Check for leaks, especially inside the home, and at all PVC junctions. Are there any cracks in your floor or foundation? Seal them with NovaLink 35 sealant. You will see significant energy savings over time if you have a well-sealed floor and membrane.

An important part of radon system inspection is to check for debris inside the system.  An easy way to do this is to first cut power to the fan. Then you can remove the fan couplings and pull the fan off the system. Use a flashlight to look up and down the pipe. If you see debris, remove it with a shop vac. Take your fan, while disconnected from power, and flip it upside down, then burp it like a baby. Seriously, manually spinning the fan impeller from underneath and tapping your fan can get rid of all sorts of debris. Leaves, dead bugs, dust, etc. all these things can increase fan noise and impede your system. Once all debris has been removed, reinstall your fan and power it up!

Lastly, perform a radon test! Oh I already said that? Then it must be really important!

Once you’ve done all of the above and your test results have come back under 2.7 pCi/L, your maintenance is complete. Many NRPP licensed pros now offer subscription based radon system maintenance and monitoring. Be sure to ask your local NRPP certified pro if they do follow up testing and maintenance.  Let them take it off your plate and give you peace of mind!