Understanding Winter Radon Levels

Radon levels tend to rise during the winter months, and several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

1. Reduced Ventilation:

• Tight home sealing for warmth reduces ventilation, allowing indoor pollutants like radon to accumulate.

1. Stack Effect:

• Warm air rising in buildings creates negative pressure, drawing in radon from the ground.

1. Frozen Ground:

• Winter freezes the ground, hindering radon's escape and increasing its concentration beneath buildings.

1. Heating Systems:

• Some heating systems create negative pressure, pulling in radon; inefficient systems can worsen this effect.

1. Behavioral Patterns:

• Closed windows and doors during winter limit ventilation, leading to higher indoor radon levels.

Radon, a naturally occurring gas, poses health risks, including an increased risk of lung cancer. Testing and mitigation are crucial for a healthy indoor environment.