Question: Do Radon Fans Run All The Time?

Radon system fans are constantly running to ensure that your home stays safe. Due to its constant work, fans may need to be replaced after five years or more, but it is a simple process for an experienced radon contractor.

How often should radon fan run?

Your fan needs to run continually, so don’t turn it off or unplug it. We recommend you check your U-tube once a month to ensure that the fan is working properly. After that, re-test every at least every 2 years to ensure safe levels.

How long do radon fans work?

Fans may last for five years or more (manufacturer warranties tend not to exceed five years) and may then need to be repaired or replaced. Replacing a fan will cost around $200 – $350 including parts and labor. It is a good idea to retest your home at least every two years to be sure radon levels remain low.

Should you be able to hear a radon fan?

Radon Fans Wear Out Over Time: Don’t wait to replace it But sometimes you might hear it making noise. The fan’s bearings that help to lubricate the motion and reduce the noise start to go bad. This is mainly due to standard wear and tear that happens because the radon mitigation fan runs all the time.

How do you turn off a radon fan?

The system on/off switch is located beside the fan in an exterior system. The radon fan should be running at all times and turning it off will effect the fan warrant. The switch is for servicing the radon fan and mitigation system. The switch can be accidentally turned off.

Why is my radon fan so loud?

There are two noises that are generated by the radon system: air flow and vibration. Excessive noise and back pressure is created when too much air is moved through the pipe. According to the best standard, a 3” pipe should move no more than 34 CFM before the system is too noisy and loses efficiency.

Why does radon fan need to be in attic?

Radon fans are better protected from the elements. Radon systems create condensation within the suction and exhaust pipes. In cold environments, this condensation can freeze and effect the life of the radon vent fan. Radon fans inside attic spaces are better protected from the freeze and thaw cycle.

How do I know if my radon fan is working?

The quick and dirty way to see if a radon mitigation fan is running is to take a peek at the radon pipe in the basement. If it’s an active system, there should be a monitoring tube installed. This tube gets filled with a liquid which gets offset by the suction created by a fan.

Do radon fans really work?

Most types of radon reduction systems cause some loss of heated or air conditioned air, which could increase your utility bills. Systems that use fans are more effective in reducing radon levels; however, they will slightly increase your electric bill.

What are symptoms of radon exposure?

Possible symptoms include shortness of breath (difficulty breathing), a new or worsening cough, pain or tightness in the chest, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing. If you smoke and you know you’ve been exposed to high levels of radon, it’s very important to quit smoking.

Can you hear radon fan in attic?

If the fan is installed properly, improperly or gets a little out of balance, it may vibrate, transmitting noise into and through the PVC pipes, into the wall and into the house. You may hear it. If you open your windows, on a quiet evening, you may be able to hear the fan running. If the fan is in the garage or attic.

How much does it cost to replace a radon fan?

The radon fans are guaranteed by manufacturers for 3 – 5 years. Their replacement cost, including installation, is usually $300 to $600. Homeowners are aware that the fan must run continuously 24/7, year after year. The typical estimate of the electricity cost is $150 per year.

Does radon fan require dedicated circuit?

Most radon fans use 1 amp or less of current and do not need a dedicated circuit. The bigger ones pull only a little more. There is no code requirement or good reason for a dedicated circuit for the fan. Putting it on a circuit with lighting fixtures in your home might be a good idea, however.

Can radon fan be installed in basement?

A radon fan cannot be installed in a basement. As per building codes, a radon fan should be installed only in attics, garages, or outside the house.

How long does it take for radon to dissipate?

Generally speaking, it only takes one to three days to remove the radon from your home, and then it will need to be tested again. If levels are below the recommended threshold of 0.4 pCi/L, a radon mitigation system can be installed to prevent more radon from coming into your home.

Do radon mitigation systems always work?

Based on evidence by the EPA, radon mitigation systems work well. In some cases, they’re 99% effective. When you’ve had radon removal performed in your home and you’re still seeing elevated levels, that’s a sign that you may have hired the wrong team to perform the work.