Does Cold Weather Affect Radon Levels in the Home?

Cold temperatures bring more than just frosty mornings and cozy nights—they can also significantly impact indoor radon levels. This invisible, odorless gas can become more concentrated in homes during winter, posing increased health risks. Understanding the connection between cold weather and radon is essential for protecting your family and ensuring safe indoor air quality.

Why Radon Levels Spike in Cold Weather

During winter, homes are often sealed tightly to retain heat, reducing ventilation. This creates a pressure imbalance known as the stack effect, where warm air escapes from the upper parts of the house, drawing radon-rich air from the soil into the living spaces. Additionally, colder outdoor temperatures create a greater pressure differential between your home and the ground, further increasing radon infiltration.  For more information on how radon enters homes, visit the EPA's Radon Overview

The Health Risks of Elevated Radon Levels 

Prolonged exposure to high radon levels can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among non-smokers. Winter months, with their heightened radon concentrations, make regular testing more crucial than ever.

When to Test for Radon

Winter is the ideal season for radon testing since the conditions that lead to increased radon levels—sealed homes and reduced airflow—are most pronounced. Testing provides peace of mind and helps you take action if levels are above the EPA’s recommended threshold of 4 pCi/L.

How to Protect Your Home from Winter Radon Levels

• Test Your Home: Use a short-term radon test kit during winter to measure levels accurately. Learn how to test your home effectively by visiting the Purple Mountain Radon.
• Install a Mitigation System: If tests reveal high radon levels, a professional radon mitigation system can reduce concentrations by up to 99%. Explore EPA guidelines on radon mitigation systems.
• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect your foundation and seal any visible cracks to limit radon entry points.
• Maintain Proper Ventilation: While preserving energy efficiency, ensure your home has adequate ventilation to balance indoor air pressure.

Stay Safe This Winter

Cold weather may elevate radon levels, but with regular testing and proactive mitigation, your home can remain a safe haven. Don't let this silent intruder compromise your family's health—test your home this winter and take action if needed.