Passive vs. Active Radon Systems: Which Is Right for You?

Both passive and active radon mitigation systems work to vent radon gas safely out of the home. If you’ve recently tested your home for radon and discover elevated levels indoors, you’ll need a mitigation system of some sort in place.

But which system is right for you? Festa Radon Technologies aims to answer that question by reviewing the differences between passive and active radon mitigation systems.

Active Mitigation

An active radon mitigation system includes a vent pipe that reaches from the basement all the way up to the roof, as well as a radon vent fan. The fan works to actively pull radon out of the suction pit in your basement to vent the gas safely outdoors. Active mitigation is recommended for homes with indoor radon levels in excess of 4 pCi/L.

Pro Tip:

Should you choose an active radon mitigation system, install a radon fan cover box over the fan to protect it from changes in weather. This single step will ultimately prolong the life of your radon mitigation fan.

Passive Mitigation

A passive radon mitigation system incorporates many of the elements of an active system, but without the radon fan. Instead, passive systems utilize the natural pressure differential in your home to move radon through the vent pipe and out of your home. Passive mitigation systems are often installed in newer houses to prevent radon from building up in the first place.

Pro Tip:

If you install a passive radon mitigation system and need more active mitigation later on, it’s easy to “activate” the system by installing a fan.

Which Is Best for Your Home?

If the radon levels in your home exceed the EPA’s recommendation of 4 pCi/L, active mitigation is the most powerful way to reduce those levels. Festa’s radon fans are durable, quiet, and efficient in their energy usage; there are minimal disadvantages to installing a radon fan.

If your radon levels are below 4 pCi/L but enough above zero to worry you, start with a passive radon mitigation system. Should you need more powerful mitigation in the future, you can add a radon fan to your passive system.

When choosing between passive and active radon mitigation systems and deciding which is right for you, the first step is always to test your home for radon. When you know exactly what your levels are, you can choose the radon mitigation system that will serve you best.