**Boise's "Green" Builds: Radon Hiding Lung Harm?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Boise is crisp, clean, and increasingly expensive. But there’s a silent threat lurking beneath the surface, one that’s potentially amplified by the very measures designed to save you money on your heating bill.
Boise’s commitment to green building and energy efficiency is commendable. New construction often boasts airtight seals, improved insulation, and high-efficiency HVAC systems. These features drastically reduce energy consumption, but they can also inadvertently trap radon gas, a naturally occurring radioactive element, inside homes. This colorless, odorless gas is a known carcinogen, and prolonged exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Is Boise’s push for energy efficiency creating a radon hotspot? Let’s dig in.
Radon originates from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It seeps into buildings through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings. In older, draftier homes, radon often dissipates naturally through ventilation. However, the airtight construction of energy-efficient homes can prevent this natural escape, leading to elevated radon levels.
The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon, regardless of age or construction type. For Boise homeowners, DIY radon testing is a straightforward and affordable first step. You can purchase a short-term radon test kit at most hardware stores or online for around $25-$50. These kits typically involve placing a passive detector in the lowest lived-in level of your home for 2-7 days, then mailing it to a lab for analysis.
Follow the instructions carefully. Closed-house conditions are crucial for accurate results. This means keeping windows and doors closed (except for normal entry and exit) for at least 12 hours before and during the test. Avoid testing during periods of high winds or storms, as these can affect radon levels.
If your DIY test reveals elevated radon levels (4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher), it’s essential to conduct a follow-up test to confirm the results. A long-term test, conducted over 90 days or more, provides a more accurate average radon concentration. You can also hire a certified radon professional to perform testing and provide mitigation recommendations.
Mitigation strategies for energy-efficient homes in Boise require a nuanced approach. Simply opening windows isn’t a sustainable solution, as it negates the energy savings you’re trying to achieve. The most common and effective mitigation technique is sub-slab depressurization (SSD).
SSD involves installing a vent pipe and fan system that draws radon gas from beneath the foundation and vents it safely outside. The fan creates a negative pressure zone under the slab, preventing radon from entering the home.
For newer, energy-efficient homes, SSD systems can be integrated during construction. This is often more cost-effective than retrofitting an existing home. Passive SSD systems, which rely on natural convection instead of a fan, can also be effective in some cases, but they may not be sufficient for homes with high radon levels.
A common mistake developers make is installing SSD systems without properly sealing cracks and openings in the foundation. This allows radon to bypass the system and enter the home. Ensure that your contractor thoroughly seals all potential entry points before activating the SSD system.
Another challenge is maintaining the system over time. The fan in an SSD system can fail, leading to a buildup of radon. Regularly check the system’s manometer (a pressure gauge) to ensure it’s operating correctly. Consider installing a radon alarm to provide an early warning in case of system failure.
The cost of radon mitigation in Boise can range from $800 to $2500, depending on the size and complexity of the home. Fortunately, financial assistance is available to help Idaho homeowners cover these costs.
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers a Radon Grant Program that provides funding to low-income homeowners for radon mitigation. The program prioritizes households with children under the age of 18 and those with a member who has been diagnosed with lung cancer.
To apply for the Radon Grant Program, you’ll need to provide proof of income, a copy of your radon test results, and a bid from a certified radon mitigation contractor. The DEQ website has detailed information about eligibility requirements and the application process.
In addition to the state grant program, some local organizations in Boise may offer financial assistance for radon mitigation. Contact the United Way of Treasure Valley or the Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities to inquire about available resources.
Boise’s commitment to sustainability is admirable, but it’s crucial to address the potential health risks associated with energy-efficient construction. Radon is a serious threat, but it’s also a preventable one. By taking proactive steps to test your home and mitigate radon, you can protect your family’s health and enjoy the benefits of a green home without compromising your well-being. Don’t let the pursuit of energy efficiency inadvertently create a health hazard. Test, mitigate, and breathe easy, Boise.