Radon System Maintenance and Post-Mitigation Radon Testing: A Homeowner’s Guide for Calgary

Introduction: Why Radon System Maintenance Matters in Calgary Homes

Due to Alberta’s uranium-rich soil, radon exposure is a concern many Calgary homeowners will face at some point. While installing a radon mitigation system is an important step, some homeowners mistakenly believe the problem is permanently resolved once the system is installed. In reality, radon system performance can change over time.

Soil movement, foundation settling, seasonal pressure differences, and aging components can all affect a system’s ability to control radon levels. For this reason, regular radon system maintenance is essential to ensure continued protection for your household year after year—not just immediately after installation.

Understanding Post-Mitigation Radon Testing

The only reliable way to confirm that a radon mitigation system is working effectively is through post-mitigation radon testing. Visual inspections alone cannot detect issues such as reduced suction or airflow failures within sealed piping.

Calgary’s significant seasonal temperature changes can create pressure variations that directly affect radon system performance. Post-mitigation testing confirms that radon levels remain below Health Canada’s recommended limit of 200 Bq/m³ and ensures the system continues to protect your indoor air quality.

How Often Homeowners Should Test for Radon in Calgary

Many Calgary homeowners are unsure how frequently they should retest their homes after radon mitigation. Without a regular testing schedule, system failures may go undetected for years, leading homeowners to believe their system is functioning correctly when it is not.

Routine post-mitigation radon testing helps identify performance issues early and ensures continued effectiveness of the mitigation system.

Inspecting Radon Fans and Mechanical Components

The radon fan is the most critical component of any mitigation system. Regular inspections are essential to confirm it is operating properly.

A thorough inspection should include:

• Confirming the fan is running and producing airflow

• Checking vent pipes for moisture, cracks, loose joints, or blockages

• Ensuring unobstructed venting to allow radon gas to exit the home

Any restriction in airflow can significantly reduce system effectiveness.

Creating a Practical Radon System Maintenance Checklist

A maintenance checklist helps homeowners stay consistent and reduces the risk of overlooking important tasks. A realistic checklist may include:

• Checking the manometer regularly to confirm pressure levels

• Inspecting the radon fan every three months

• Sealing visible foundation cracks annually

• Conducting post-mitigation radon testing every two years

• Using long-term radon monitoring to track changes over time

Following a checklist makes radon safety more straightforward to manage and more reliable.

Signs of Potential Radon System Failure

Recognizing early warning signs of radon system failure is an important part of maintenance. Common indicators include:

• Condensation inside vent pipes

• A silent or unusually noisy radon fan

• A pressure gauge showing no change

• New cracks in the foundation

• An increase in measured radon levels

These issues often develop gradually, which is why regular testing is crucial to prevent prolonged radon exposure.

Long-Term Radon Monitoring: Keeping Indoor Air Safe

Short-term radon tests provide only a snapshot of conditions, while long-term monitoring reflects true exposure over time. In Calgary, the winter “stack effect” can draw more radon into homes, making long-term monitoring especially valuable.

Monitoring radon levels for 90 days or longer helps homeowners confirm that their maintenance efforts are effective throughout all seasons—not just during warmer months.

Post-Mitigation Radon Safety Tips for Homeowners

To maintain system performance:

• Never shut off radon fans or disconnect vent pipes

• Avoid placing heavy objects near suction points

• Keep long-term radon monitors in the lowest lived-in level of the home

These simple precautions help ensure the system continues to function as designed.

When to Call a Professional for Radon System Repair

Some radon system issues require professional attention. Homeowners should contact a certified radon professional if:

• Post-mitigation test results remain elevated

• The radon fan shows no airflow

• There are clear signs of system failure

Certified radon technicians can perform advanced diagnostics, including pressure testing, airflow analysis, and system sealing, beyond what homeowners can safely do themselves.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Home Radon-Safe Year After Year

Radon safety is not a one-time task—it requires ongoing attention. Through regular radon system maintenance, scheduled post-mitigation testing, fan inspections, and long-term monitoring, Calgary homeowners can protect their indoor air quality for decades.

By following a maintenance checklist, recognizing warning signs, and applying practical radon safety tips, families living in Alberta’s radon-prone environment can enjoy lasting peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon System Maintenance

How often should I perform post-mitigation radon testing?

In Calgary, homeowners should conduct post-mitigation radon testing every two years using long-term tests. Alberta’s soil and climate conditions can alter airflow patterns around foundations, making regular testing essential.

What happens during a radon fan inspection?

A radon fan inspection includes confirming the fan is running, listening for unusual noise or vibration, checking the manometer for pressure changes, and inspecting vent pipes for condensation, cracks, or loose joints.

What are the most common signs of radon system failure?

Typical signs include lack of fan operation, abnormal fan noise, unchanged pressure readings, condensation in vent pipes, and rising radon levels despite mitigation.