Once a radon mitigation system is installed, most homeowners stop thinking about it. If the fan is tucked away in the basement and everything looks fine, there is little reason to give it much thought. Many radon systems are only tested or repaired due to a home inspection while selling on average every 7 to 8 years. I\u2019ve seen \u201cfailed\u201d systems unaddressed for over 30 years.<\/p>\n
However, a radon system relies on mechanical equipment, and mechanical equipment ages. Fans fail, pipes loosen, and sealants deteriorate over time. A mitigation system is not a permanent guarantee. It needs occasional attention and regular testing, that is the best way to ensure your home remains safe.<\/p>\n
Here are five signs it\u2019s time to have your radon system looked at by a professional.<\/p>\n
An active radon mitigation system relies entirely on a working fan to pull soil gas from beneath your home and exhaust it safely outdoors. If the steady sound of air flow and quiet hum of the fan suddenly disappears, do not assume the silence is a good thing. The issue could be a simple electrical fault, or the fan may have reached the end of its lifespan. A system cannot protect you if its primary component is not running.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Cracks in the piping \u2013 can drip moisture or run air leaks
\n\u2022 Loose or shifting connections \u2013 visibly falling apart or leaky air noises
\n\u2022 Unusual or heavy fan vibrations, can hear or feel in nearby rooms
\n\u2022 Moisture pooling around components \u2013 may be caused for various reasons
\n\u2022 Obvious physical damage from basement, garage or outdoor activity or weather<\/p>\n
While these signs do not always mean complete system failure, they warrant a professional evaluation to ensure your system\u2019s performance is not compromised.<\/p>\n
A running fan is not proof that radon levels are low. You cannot see or smell radon, which makes testing your best and true diagnostic tool. If a routine test produces a higher reading than expected, it must be taken seriously. The fan could be underperforming, a seal may have broken, or your home’s foundation may have shifted. Partnering with a qualified radon testing company in Central New York can help you interpret the results and confirm the accuracy you\u2019re your test method and equipment, then determine the next steps.<\/p>\n
It is easy to assume the job is done forever once a system is installed. However, the EPA recommends re-testing your home every two years to ensure the system is still doing its job. If you cannot remember the last time your home was tested, that alone is a perfect reason to schedule a test. Catching an issue early is far better than assuming everything is fine.<\/p>\n
An existing radon system provides some peace of mind when buying a home, but it also raises practical questions:<\/p>\n
\u2022 How old is the fan?
\n\u2022 Was it installed by a certified professional?
\n\u2022 Are there past test results or service records?
\n\u2022 If so, who did the radon tests and were they unbiased and certified accurate?
\n\u2022 In what season was the test performed? Radon is typically higher the more the heating system is operating.
\n\u2022 Changes to the structure since the system was installed can significantly change radon levels. New additions, heating systems, doors, windows, added insulation can all raise the radon levels.<\/p>\n
With older properties, these answers are often missing. If you have an installed radon system in Central New York that has been in place for many years, it makes sense to establish a baseline rather than relying on an unverified, aging system and old tests.<\/p>\n
Professional attention does not automatically mean replacing your entire system. The first step is always diagnosis. A specialist will inspect the fan, visible piping, connections, and system configuration while reviewing your recent test data.<\/p>\n
From there, the solution might be a simple adjustment, a minor repair, or a target component replacement. Replacing equipment simply because it is old is just as unhelpful as ignoring a quiet fan.<\/p>\n
Most homeowners will never experience a dramatic system failure. Instead, the signs are subtle: a change in fan noise, a cracked pipe, or a creeping test result.<\/p>\n
At A Best Radon Systems, we help homeowners evaluate their existing mitigation equipment and understand their test results. If you have concerns about your system, speaking with a certified radon testing company in Central New York provides a clear, data-driven starting point.<\/p>\n
Keep an eye on your equipment, pay attention to changes, and test your home periodically. A current radon test combined with a well-maintained mitigation system gives you real, actionable peace of mind.<\/p>\n
You should visually inspect your system’s pressure gauge (manometer) monthly and have your home professionally re-tested every two years to confirm radon levels remain controlled.<\/p>\n
Turn to a qualified professional for an inspection immediately. A non-functioning fan means radon gas is likely building up inside your living spaces.<\/p>\n
Yes. A fan can spin and make noise even if it has lost the suction power required to pull gas out from under your slab. Regular testing is the only way to confirm it is working effectively.<\/p>\n
Absolutely. Environmental conditions and home foundations change over time. Regular testing confirms the system is successfully keeping radon at a safe level.<\/p>\n
You should have the existing system evaluated by a professional and perform an updated radon test, especially if the previous owner did not leave service records.<\/p>\n
Give us a call to schedule your radon system evaluation and testing service<\/p>\n
Central New Yorks, trusted radon professionals. We\u2019re one of the only full-time radon mitigation companies in New York state. Radon work is all we do, and we do it well. We use a comprehensive 52 Point Radon System Inspection and Evaluation Checklist.<\/p>\n