Did you know that the device pictured above IS NOT measuring the radon gas level in your home? This is a common misconception for homeowners and realtors alike, but what’s pictured here is a manometer. It’s an important part of your home’s radon mitigation system, and we’ll discuss why it’s there and how it helps to ensure your system is operating appropriately.
What is a manometer?
A manometer is a device used to display how much vacuum your radon mitigation system is drawing. A fan in your attic pulls subsoil gases from under the concrete slab your home is built upon and exhausts them into the atmosphere. The manometer provides a quick visual reference to indicate if vacuum is being created and your system fan is running properly or not.
When the mitigation system is running properly, the liquid in the manometer tube will be offset typically anywhere from .5 to 1.75 inches. If the system fan is not running, the fluid will rest at zero on both sides. If your fan is running and the fluid is at zero, the system needs service, as there is no longer any vacuum being drawn.
The dangers of radon gas.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless, naturally occurring gas that enters your home through the ground from beneath and around it. The U.S. Surgeon General advises that radon gas is dangerous and is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Having a properly operating radon mitigation system helps to pull these gases out from under your home.
Testing Requirements
The EPA Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide recommends recommends conducting post-mitigation radon testing every 2 years in all previously tested locations. In addition, if the home has been altered, and in conjunction with any sale of the property radon testing should again be performed. Nothing remains constant, and conditions change over time. The manometer alone does not ensure that a radon mitigation system is operating as designed. Only radon testing can do that.
In summary, the only way to know the accurate radon levels in your home is to have it tested. HomePro Inspections employs the licensed and certified professionals required to ensure radon testing is performed correctly and all testing protocols are meticulously met.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule radon testing for your home. You can contact us today at (507)202-8942 or utilize our online “Schedule Now” feature to set up an appointment.