Do Air Purifiers Help With Radon Gas?
Short answer
Long answer
Let's begin with what is Radon. Radon is an invisible, odorless, and naturally occurring radioactive gas from decaying uranium. It can enter the home through cracks in wall, tiles, soils, gaps in pipes and even water supply. The early symptoms consist of persistent cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In high concentration level, radon can cause lung cancer especially if a person smokes. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. responsible for at least 21,000 lung cancer-related deaths each year.
What Are The Health Risks of Being Exposed To Radon
If your house has a serious radon issue that is unresolved, you are at risk of being exposed to the following symptoms and diseases:
- Persistent cough with blood
- Wheezing, hoarseness
- Chest pain with breathing difficulty
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Frequent infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia
- Emphysema
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Chronic interstitial pneumonia
- Silicosis
- Respiratory lesions
Will An Air Purifier Help With Radon?
An air purifier with a good activated carbon filter can get rid of radon gases at home. When we said good, the carbon filter must be a standalone carbon filter rather than a carbon sheet. Airflow delivery and coverage also play a big role to ensure all radon gases are swiftly captured. Keep in mind though an air purifier will not stop the radon gas from continuously leaking in. You will need to get down to the root cause of the problem.
Can You Reduce Radon By Opening Windows?
Yes, but it will take ages to clear out all radon if the weather is kind. That means the amount radon leaking in will far exceed the radon from flowing out. Also, it is not a sustainable solution as radon gas will stay indoor in winter and summer where the air is hot and humid. Not to mention by opening a window, you are letting in more outdoor pollutants from flowing inside. Some airborne contaminants do not react well with radioactive gases.
Do I Need Radon Mitigation?
If your home’s indoor radon levels are 4 pCi/L or higher, we recommend going straight for certified radon mitigation. Not only it will cut off the sources of radon leakage, a post-mitigation will reduce radon level >90%. Take note that radon mitigation costs vary from $500-1500 depending on the states and house conditions. It is not cheap but it’s effective and there shouldn’t be a price tag on your health. We do not recommend DIY seal cracks, improve basement foundations, and water drainage unless you have the expertise.
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