Below are the key factors influencing these radon fluctuations :
● Temperature differences : indoors vs . outdoors
● Home sealing and insulation levels
● Insufficient home ventilation system
● Increased heating in colder seasons
● Weather conditions like snow , ice , or rain
● Decreased airflow during inactivity or sleep
● Home occupancy patterns
● Variations in atmospheric pressure
Radon Levels Fluctuate from Season to Season
Many homeowners begin to monitor their radon levels during the spring or summer , shortly after moving into a new home . The weather is nice , and there ' s little temperature difference between indoors and outdoors . During warmer months , homes are wellventilated with open windows and doors , typically yielding lower measurements in radon testing results .
However , as temperatures drop and we seal our homes tightly against the cold , we see a different radon trend . The temperature between indoors and outdoors is now different . With reduced ventilation and continued heating , radon becomes trapped indoors . This is how .
You may notice that when heating your home , the upper floors are often warmer than the lower ones . This happens because warm air naturally rises and escapes through the roof , creating a vacuum-like airflow . This airflow accelerates the radon gas entry from the soil into the house . The gas moves upwards along with the warm air , entering the house through cracks in the foundation , gathering at the ground level , and gradually diluting as it ascends to the upper floors .
Keep in mind that airtight and energy-efficient homes are designed to minimize the exchange of air between the inside and outside environments . While this is beneficial for reducing energy consumption and maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures , if planned energy-efficient ventilation isn ’ t added , it can trap indoor air pollutants , including radon gas .