The hidden costs of cheap radon mitigation system (with Joshua Kerber)
In this conversation, Reuben and Tessa interview Joshua Kerber to discuss the optimization of radon systems in homes. Joshua shares a case study of optimizing a radon system in a new home, highlighting the importance of properly sizing and selecting fans for radon mitigation. To follow along with the case study, check out our slide deck here: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TRrkv4r9vtVqFs_jLNJ8cszgMtj793WZ1cRwTTr7lOY/edit?usp=sharing . They also discuss the impact of household activities on radon systems and the need for proper optimization to reduce operating costs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sealing the sub slab area and the potential use of damper valves to control airflow. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for knowledgeable and skilled radon contractors to ensure effective and efficient radon mitigation. In this conversation, Joshua Kerber discusses various aspects of radon mitigation systems. He explains the installation of ball valves and dampers to control airflow in the system. He also discusses the placement of valves in radon mitigation systems and the potential freezing issues with radon system pipes. The comparison of operating costs between radon fans and continuous run bath fans is explored. The conversation also highlights the inaccurate specifications of commonly installed bath fans and the issues with kitchen exhaust fans. The importance of avoiding cheap DIY radon mitigation systems is emphasized, along with questions to ask radon mitigation contractors and resources to find licensed contractors. Takeaways Properly sizing and selecting fans for radon mitigation is crucial for optimizing radon systems in homes. Sealing the subslab area is an important step in reducing the amount of conditioned air wasted by radon systems. Household activities can impact the performance of radon systems, and proper optimization is necessary to ensure effective mitigation. The use of damper valves can help control airflow and reduce operating costs in radon systems. Knowledgeable and skilled radon contractors are essential for effective and efficient radon mitigation. Ball valves and dampers can be used to control airflow in radon mitigation systems. Valves are typically installed below the fan and near a suction point location. Freezing issues can occur with radon system pipes, and dampers should be installed on the inside to prevent freezing. Radon fans may have higher operating costs compared to continuous run bath fans. Commonly installed bath fans often do not operate at their specified airflow rates. Kitchen exhaust fans can have issues with internal dampers and improper installation. It is important to avoid cheap DIY radon mitigation systems and hire qualified contractors. Homeowners should ask contractors about their optimization methods and what is needed for the system. Resources such as government websites can help homeowners find licensed radon mitigation contractors. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Christmas Light Fail 03:08 Introducing Joshua Kerber and His Role at the Minnesota Department of Health 05:45 National Issues in Radon Programs 11:26 Case Study: Optimizing a Radon System in a New Home 17:34 Optimizing Radon Systems with Adjustable Speed Fans 22:11 The Importance of Sealing the Subslab Area 25:00 The Impact of Household Activities on Radon Systems 30:28 The Need for Proper Optimization and Cost Considerations 36:59 Discussion on Damper Valves 39:13 Installation of Ball Valves and Dampers 40:25 Placement of Valves in Radon Mitigation Systems 41:36 Freezing Issues with Radon System Pipes 41:49 Location of Dampers to Prevent Freezing