A radon mitigation fan is not only the best and most effective way of getting rid of radon gas in one’s home, but it’s also literally a life-saving device. We will show you how to choose the best system for your needs and review some of them too.
Topics Covered
- Do radon fans really work?
- How to choose a radon mitigation fan
- The best radon mitigation fans
- Can I install a radon fan myself?
- Do you leave the radon fan on all the time?
- How long do radon fans last?
- Why is my radon fan vibrating against my house?
- Can you oversize a radon fan?
- Are radon fans noisy?
- Conclusion
| Product | Brand | Size | Noise Level | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Festa Radon AMG Maverick | 4″ | 50-60 dB | |
 |
RadonAway RP145c | 4″ | 30 dB | |
 |
Fantech Rn 2EC | 3-4″ | 30 – 40 dB | |
 |
Tjernlund RMS160 | 3″ | 40-50 dB | |
 |
Tjernlund PVC4 | 4″ | 20-30 dB |
Do radon fans really work?
Yes, radon mitigation fans are indeed effective in reducing radon gas levels and ensuring a safer indoor environment. These fans play a crucial role as they are designed to prevent radon gas from accumulating to harmful levels inside homes and buildings.
Radon mitigation fans work by creating a pressure differential between the indoor and outdoor environments. This pressure difference helps prevent radon gas from entering living spaces by directing it away from the building’s foundation or soil. The fan continuously pulls radon-rich air from beneath the structure and expels it outside, thereby reducing indoor radon concentrations.
How to choose a radon mitigation fan
Not all of these fans are created equally so there are a few things you may want to consider before choosing one.
Airflow capacity
Choose a fan with appropriate airflow capacity based on the size of your home or building. The fan should be able to effectively draw out radon gas from the soil and maintain negative pressure.
Durable construction
Opt for a fan made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand outdoor conditions. A fan that is resistant to corrosion and environmental elements will ensure long-term effectiveness.
Energy efficiency
Look for fans that are energy-efficient to help minimize operational costs over time. Energy-efficient fans consume less electricity while maintaining optimal performance.
Quiet operation
A quieter fan ensures minimal disruption to your indoor environment. Fans with noise-reducing features are ideal, especially if the system is installed in a living space or near bedrooms.
Compliance
Choose a radon mitigation fan that complies with relevant industry standards and regulations, such as those set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local building codes.
The best radon mitigation fans
Here we will review four radon mitigation fan systems. The Festa Radon AMG Maverick, the RadonAway RP145c, the Fantech Rn 2EC inline radon fan, and two from Tjernlund.
Festa Radon AMG Maverick radon fan
The Festa Radon AMG Maverick radon fan is reliable, efficient and offers quiet operation with energy-saving features.
It operates at a decibel range of 50-60dB, so it won’t create any unnecessary noise or disturbance in your living space. As mentioned, it’s also energy-efficient as it uses only 66 watts. This helps save energy costs without compromising on effectiveness.
Also, you won’t need to hire a specialist to do the installation because the unit uses wago wire clamps, which greatly simplifies the wiring process. Just match the colors, insert the wire, and close the lever to establish a connection.
The fan uses a quality German motor manufactured by EBM-Papst, a renowned small motor manufacturer. These precision-balanced and vibration-free motors contribute to quieter operation. The housing is made from compression-molded, glass-reinforced poly-resin. This high-quality material, manufactured in Ohio, USA, ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to fading or color changes over time. This means that the fan will maintain its appearance and performance for years to come.
The Festa Radon AMG Maverick Fan comes with an impressive 5-year warranty, which proves the manufacturer’s confidence in its product. In case of any fan failure, you can rely on the warranty for a hassle-free and cost-free resolution.
- Brand: Festa Radon AMG Maverick
- Noise level: 50-60dB
- Energy: 66 Watts
- Max flow: 260 CFM
- Coupler: 4″
- Dimensions: 12.06″D x 12.06″W x 9.25″H
- Weight: 8 Pounds
- Warranty: 5-Year Warranty
RadonAway RP145c radon fan
The RadonAway RP145c is a fantastic radon mitigation fan that delivers exceptional performance and operates quietly. It’s manufactured by the trusted brand RadonAway and offers a range of features that make it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial use.
One of its best features is its energy efficiency and ultra-quiet operation. With a noise level of just 30dB, it operates silently. Additionally, its energy-efficient design helps you save on electricity costs without compromising on performance.
Also, its built with a water-hardened motorized impeller which offers exceptional durability and longevity. Its designed to withstand the rigors of continuous operation and is highly resistant to corrosion caused by moisture. This makes the RP145c an excellent choice where long-term performance is essential.
Another great thing about it is that the seams of the unit are sealed to inhibit radon leakage, ensuring that the mitigation system effectively redirects dangerous radon gas away from your indoor environment.
It is also thermally protected. This helps prevent overheating and extends the fan’s lifespan, ensuring reliable performance for years to come.
- Brand: RadonAway RP145c
- Noise level: 30dB
- Energy: 37 Watts
- Max flow: 166 CFM
- Coupler: 4″
- Dimensions: 9.7″D x 9.7″W x 8.5″H
- Weight: 6 Pounds
- Warranty: 5-Year Warranty
Fantech Rn 2EC inline radon fan
The Fantech Rn 2EC inline radon fan is efficient and reliable. It has built-in speed control, which allows you to easily select the right suction level required for your specific situation. This feature ensures optimal performance and efficiency. Whether you need higher suction for sub-slab depressurization or lower flow rates for system airflow, the fan can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.
The fan itself is made from two molded plastic pieces that are seamlessly joined together. This creates airtight housing that guarantees zero radon leakage. Also, the fan’s large watertight electrical wiring enclosure simplifies the installation process, making it quick and convenient.
It has safety features such as the thermal overload protection and an automatic reset feature that protects the motor from overheating.
This fan can be installed either indoors or outdoors, thus providing flexibility based on your specific installation requirements. And for ease of installation on a 3″ or 4″ PVC pipe, you can use the provided FRIK 4×3 or FRIK 4×4 installation kits.
- Brand: Fantech Rn 2EC
- Noise level: 30–40 dB
- Energy: 53 Watts
- Max flow: 175 CFM
- Coupler: 3-4″
- Dimensions: 13.5″D x 13.5″W x 11″H
- Weight: 7 Pounds
- Warranty: 5-Year Warranty
Tjernlund RMS160 sidewall mitigation system
The Tjernlund RMS160 sidewall radon mitigation system is innovative and efficient. It includes a sealed blower with 3″ PVC connectors and a patent-pending high-velocity discharge hood. This combination pulls radon gas from your home’s interior through the basement sidewall. This means that you won’t need to run PVC pipes through living areas.
Its sealed, galvanized housing ensures durability and prevents radon gas leakage. It also runs a permanently lubricated motor that operates quietly while also minimizing energy consumption.
The installation is simple and easy as both the fan and hood directly connect to 3″ PVC pipes without the need for rubber couplers. Then there’s the rubber isolated mounting bracket which eliminates vibration and even allows for 360-degree rotation.
- Brand: Tjernlund RMS160
- Noise level: 40-50 dB
- Energy: 50 Watts
- Max flow: 160 CFM
- Coupler: 3″
- Dimensions: 14.2″D x 17.9″W x 12.6″H
- Weight: 16 Pounds
- Warranty: 10-Year Warranty
Tjernlund PVC4 mitigation fan
The Tjernlund PVC4 radon fan is a highly effective and easy-to-install mitigation system for reducing radon levels in homes.
One of the best features of this fan is that its the most energy efficient radon fan. And it has high-grade construction as it comes with a permanently lubricated ball bearing motor that ensures durability and long-lasting performance while operating silently.
Installing the unit is quick and easy. It can be directly connected to 4-inch PVC pipes and can be assembled in just 5 minutes. Also, safety is a top priority with this fan because it has custom-fitted gaskets that prevent radon gas leakage. Then there’s the heavy-duty galvanized steel housing that contributes to its durability.
- Brand: Tjernlund PVC4
- Noise level: 20-30 dB
- Energy: 16 Watts
- Max flow: 80 CFM
- Coupler: 4″
- Dimensions: 6.4″D x 6.5″W x 6.8″H
- Weight: 3 Pounds
- Warranty: 10-Year Warranty
Can I install a radon fan myself?
Yes, you can install a radon fan yourself, but it’s a task that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Before proceeding, it’s important to understand the basics of radon gas, its potential risks, and the principles of radon mitigation.
Do you leave the radon fan on all the time?
Yes, in most cases, it is recommended to leave the radon mitigation fan running continuously. Radon mitigation systems are designed to create a consistent pressure differential between the indoor and outdoor environments, which helps prevent radon gas from entering living spaces. By keeping the fan on all the time, the system maintains this pressure difference and effectively directs radon-rich air away from the building’s foundation or soil.
How long do radon fans last?
The lifespan of a radon fan can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the fan, its usage patterns, maintenance practices, and environmental conditions. Generally, a well-maintained and properly installed radon fan can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more.
Factors that can influence the longevity of a radon fan include:
Quality of the Fan: High-quality radon fans from reputable manufacturers tend to have longer lifespans. Investing in a reliable and well-constructed fan can contribute to its durability.
Usage: The fan’s continuous operation is essential for effective radon mitigation. Fans that run 24/7 might experience more wear and tear compared to those that operate intermittently.
Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures, humidity, and exposure to the elements can impact the fan’s components and overall performance. For example, fans located outdoors or in harsh conditions might have a shorter lifespan.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and inspection of the fan and system components, can help extend its lifespan. Dust and debris accumulation can affect performance over time.
Brand and Warranty: Some manufacturers offer longer warranties on their radon fans, which can be an indicator of their expected lifespan.
Why is my radon fan vibrating against my house?
If your radon fan is vibrating against your house, there are a few potential reasons for this issue:
Fan Mounting and Installation: Improper installation or mounting of the radon fan can lead to vibrations. The fan should be securely and properly attached to its mounting location to prevent movement and vibrations.
Fan Size and Power: If the radon fan is too large or powerful for your specific radon mitigation system, it may generate excessive vibrations.
Fan Balance: An unbalanced fan impeller can cause vibrations. If the fan blades are not properly aligned or if there is damage to the impeller, it can result in uneven rotation and vibrations.
Loose Components: Check if any components, such as brackets, bolts, or screws, are loose. Loose parts can contribute to vibrations as the fan operates.
Worn Bearings: Over time, the bearings inside the fan motor can wear out, leading to increased vibrations. This is more likely to occur in older or heavily used fans.
Fan Housing: The fan housing should be securely closed and sealed. If there are gaps or openings in the housing, air turbulence can lead to vibrations against the house.
Fan Location: The fan’s placement can influence vibrations. If the fan is too close to a surface, it may cause vibrations when operating.
Dampening Material: Adding dampening material, such as rubber pads or vibration isolators, between the fan and its mounting surface can greatly help reduce vibrations.
Can you oversize a radon fan?
Yes, it is possible to oversize a radon fan, and doing so can have both positive and negative effects on the radon mitigation system’s performance.
Positive effects:
Faster Radon Reduction: An oversized fan can lead to quicker reduction of radon gas levels in the indoor environment, which may be beneficial if you need rapid results or have high radon concentrations.
Greater Ventilation Capacity: A larger fan can handle a higher airflow rate, allowing for efficient ventilation of radon gas from beneath the building’s foundation.
Negative effects:
Increased Energy Consumption: An oversized fan may consume more energy than necessary to achieve the desired radon reduction. This can result in higher electricity bills and increased operational costs.
Noise and Vibration: A larger fan operating at high speed can generate more noise and vibration, potentially causing discomfort for occupants.
Are radon fans noisy?
Radon fans can vary in noise levels, but many modern radon fans are designed to operate quietly. The noise produced by a radon fan depends on factors such as the fan’s size, design, and the airflow rate it generates. Here are some key points to consider regarding the noise level of radon fans:
Fan Type: Inline fans tend to be quieter than exterior-mounted fans because they are installed within the ventilation system, reducing the transmission of noise to the indoor environment.
Fan Size and Power: Larger fans designed to handle higher airflow rates might produce more noise than smaller fans. However, advancements in fan technology have led to quieter operation even for larger models.
Sound Ratings: Look for radon fans with lower sound ratings, usually measured in decibels (dB). Manufacturers often provide sound level information in their product specifications.
Vibration Isolation: Some radon fans come with vibration isolation features, such as rubber mounts or dampening pads, to reduce vibrations and associated noise.
Installation Location: Proper installation and placement of the radon fan can also impact noise levels. Mounting the fan securely and ensuring there are no obstructions can help minimize vibrations and noise.
Quality and Brand: Well-known and reputable brands often prioritize quieter operation and invest in noise reduction technology.
Personal Sensitivity: Noise perception varies among individuals. What one person finds quiet, another might consider noisy. Consider your personal noise tolerance and the location of the fan within your home.
Professional Installation: Having a certified radon mitigation professional install the fan can ensure proper placement and minimize any noise-related issues.
Conclusion
Radon mitigation fans are vital components of radon mitigation systems, helping to reduce indoor radon gas concentrations and ensure a safer living environment. When choosing a radon mitigation fan, consider factors such as airflow capacity, durability, energy efficiency, and compliance with regulations.
The top radon mitigation fan options mentioned above offer reliable performance and contribute to effective radon gas reduction. By investing in a quality radon mitigation fan, you are taking a proactive step toward safeguarding your home and the health of its occupants from the potential dangers of radon gas.
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