Low - Not recommended due to specialized knowledge, health risks associated with system failure, and stringent code requirements for effective and compliant installation.
Reasoning based on DuPage County building standards, requiring adherence to multiple code disciplines and specialized installation techniques for effective and safe operation.
Project Guidelines & Rules
General Requirements & Permitting
3 Rules
Permits are required for all structural, electrical, and mechanical alterations associated with radon mitigation system installation.
Your local municipality (IRC R105.1)
All work shall be performed by licensed professionals where required by state or local ordinance.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local health department regulations regarding radon mitigation.
Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) Radon Program, DuPage County Health Department
System Design & Components
3 Rules
Radon mitigation systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with EPA standards and the International Residential Code.
IRC Appendix F (Radon Control Methods), IEMA Radon Program
Use of approved, durable materials resistant to corrosion and suitable for the intended application and DuPage County climate.
IRC R202, R301.2
Selection of the radon fan unit shall be appropriate for the building's sub-slab conditions (e.g., soil type, slab porosity, communication tests).
IRC Appendix F
Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD) Installation
4 Rules
Suction pit (if required) to be constructed to provide effective communication under the entire slab. Minimum 5-gallon aggregate volume per suction point.
IRC AF103.2
Suction points shall be strategically located in areas that provide effective and uniform depressurization beneath the slab.
IRC AF103.2.1
All penetrations through the slab for the suction pipe must be sealed with durable, non-shrinking caulk or other approved sealing material.
IRC AF103.2.2, AF103.3.4
Slab openings, cracks, and other accessible openings to the soil gas source shall be sealed.
IRC AF103.3.4
Venting System
6 Rules
Vent pipe material must be rigid plastic pipe (e.g., Schedule 40 PVC) with continuous slope back to the suction pit to allow condensate drainage.
IRC AF103.3.1
Vent pipe diameter shall be a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm) nominal, with larger diameters potentially required based on system design.
IRC AF103.3.1
Exhaust point location: Must terminate at least 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally from windows, doors, or other openings into the conditioned space, and at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from adjacent buildings.
IRC AF103.3.3.1
Exhaust point location: Must terminate above the highest eave of the roof and be at least 12 inches (305 mm) above the surface of the roof.
IRC AF103.3.3.2
Vent pipe routing through unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics, garages) and exterior runs shall be insulated to prevent condensation and freezing, crucial for DuPage County's cold climate.
IRC AF103.3.1
Any portion of the vent pipe penetrating exterior walls or the roof must be properly flashed and sealed to prevent water intrusion into the building envelope.
IRC R905.1, R703.1
Electrical Requirements
5 Rules
All electrical wiring and connections for the radon fan unit shall comply with the National Electrical Code.
2023 NEC Article 110, 200, 210, 250, 300
The fan unit shall be permanently wired or cord-and-plug connected to a dedicated circuit. If cord-and-plug, the receptacle must be readily accessible.
2023 NEC 422.16, 422.30
A clearly labeled disconnect switch for the radon fan shall be located within sight of the fan or on a circuit breaker readily accessible to the fan.
2023 NEC 422.31, 422.32
Wiring in damp or wet locations must be appropriate for the environment and protected from physical damage.
2023 NEC Article 300.9, 310.10(D)
All electrical work shall be performed by a licensed electrician.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
Sealing & Foundation Integrity
3 Rules
All penetrations of the slab (e.g., pipes, conduits, wires) and foundation walls (e.g., utility lines) shall be thoroughly sealed to prevent soil gas entry.
IRC AF103.3.4
Sump pits shall be covered with a tightly fitting, durable, and sealed lid that is designed to be removable for maintenance.
IRC AF103.3.5, Illinois Plumbing Code
Openings around floor drains, control joints, and cold joints in the slab should be sealed where practical and effective.
IRC AF103.3.4
Sump Pits & Drain Tiles
3 Rules
Sump pits integrated into the radon mitigation system must have a tightly fitting, removable, and air-tight cover to maintain the sub-slab depressurization.
IRC AF103.3.5
Interior or exterior drain tile systems may be utilized for sub-slab communication, provided they are accessible and can be effectively sealed from indoor air.
IRC AF103.2
Any water-related connections to sump pits (e.g., condensate from furnace, water softener discharge) must not compromise the radon seal or proper drainage, adhering to DuPage County plumbing standards.
Illinois Plumbing Code
Alarms & Monitoring
2 Rules
A system failure indicator (e.g., U-tube manometer or audible alarm) shall be installed to provide a visual or audible indication of proper radon fan operation.
IRC AF103.4
The indicator shall be located in a prominent location within the conditioned space where it can be easily seen or heard by occupants.
IRC AF103.4
Post-Installation Verification
2 Rules
Post-mitigation radon testing shall be conducted by a qualified and licensed radon measurement professional to verify system effectiveness.
IEMA Radon Program, ANSI/AARST standards
Testing shall confirm radon levels are reduced to acceptable levels, typically below 4 pCi/L, in accordance with EPA and IEMA guidelines.
IEMA Radon Program, EPA guidelines
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