What Are Passive and Active Radon Mitigation Systems?
If you’re a Calgary homeowner or property manager concerned about indoor air quality, understanding radon mitigation systems is essential. Elevated radon gas levels are common across Calgary due to the region’s soil composition and climate, posing silent but serious health risks. In this section, we’ll break down the difference between passive and active radon mitigation systems, and why every Calgary home should evaluate its radon levels immediately.
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Definition of Radon Gas
Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally from uranium decay in soil, rock, and water. Invisible, colorless, and odorless, radon seeps through foundation cracks, sump pumps, floor drains, and other penetrations—especially into basements and lower levels. Once trapped indoors, radon concentrations can rise to harmful levels.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada. It ranks just behind smoking and is especially hazardous because it builds up quietly and undetected in living spaces.
Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Long-term exposure to radon significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer, even among non-smokers. According to Health Canada, exposure to even moderate radon levels over several years can be life-threatening. This risk is amplified in Calgary, where many homes have insufficient ventilation or older foundations prone to radon intrusion.
Importance of Mitigation in Calgary
Calgary’s geography and building stock make radon mitigation a local priority. With cold winters leading to sealed homes and radon-prone soil beneath, indoor radon can accumulate rapidly. Calgary homes have some of the highest indoor radon levels in Alberta. Whether you’re buying a new home or managing a rental property, identifying and reducing radon levels is a proactive safety step—and in many cases, a legal and ethical responsibility.
Clarifying the difference between passive and active radon mitigation is your first step toward creating a radon-safe home environment in Calgary.
What Is a Passive Radon Mitigation System?
Curious whether your newer Calgary home is already protected against radon? You might have a passive radon mitigation system installed—and understanding how it works is key to knowing if you’re fully protected. These systems are designed to manage radon without mechanical components, using natural airflow and thoughtful building design to keep dangerous gas at bay.
How Passive Systems Work
Passive radon systems use a vent pipe, typically running from beneath the home’s foundation through walls or utility chases and venting above the roof. This setup relies entirely on natural pressure differentials—heat rising in the home and passive airflow—to divert radon gas safely outdoors. These systems have no fans or electronic components.
Passive systems rely on natural airflow and building construction to route radon away. Thoughtful design plays a major role in their effectiveness.
Typical Installation Scenarios
You’ll most often find passive mitigation in newer homes built to radon-resistant standards under modern building codes. Calgary builders increasingly incorporate passive radon systems during initial construction, embedding sub-slab PVC piping and vent stacks as a proactive measure. However, these systems may not be as effective in high-radon environments or older homes retrofitted inadequately.
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Pros and Cons
- Pros: Low maintenance, no energy costs, quiet operation, ideal during new construction.
- Cons: Limited airflow, may not reduce radon to safe levels in high-risk zones, ineffective in some climates or home designs.
If your home has only a passive system and your latest radon test shows readings above 200 Bq/m³, it may be time to consider upgrading to an active solution.
What Is an Active Radon Mitigation System?
Noticing elevated radon test results in your Calgary home or property? An active radon mitigation system is the gold standard for homes where passive methods fall short. With mechanical power and continual airflow, active systems offer robust protection—especially in Calgary’s high-radon zones.
How Active Systems Work
Active systems use a continuously operating fan to draw radon-laden air from below the foundation and exhaust it above the roofline. This method, known as sub-slab depressurization, prevents radon gas from entering the living space. The suction created beneath the slab redirects the gas before it ever reaches the home’s interior.
An active system includes a continuously running radon fan with sub-slab depressurization. This dynamic approach dramatically reduces radon infiltration, particularly in high-concentration areas like Calgary.
Key Components (Fans, Vents, Monitors)
- Radon Fans: Usually installed in the attic or on the home’s exterior, these durable fans create the necessary suction under the slab.
- Vent Pipes: PVC piping routes radon from the collection point to a roof-line discharge, ensuring safe outdoor release away from windows or air intakes.
- Monitoring Devices: Many systems include manometers or digital detectors to track system performance and radon levels over time.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Can reduce radon levels by over 99%, effective in all home types, reliable year-round.
- Cons: Requires electricity, minimal operational noise, periodic maintenance may be needed.
For Calgary homeowners with radon levels exceeding guideline thresholds, an active mitigation system isn’t just recommended—it’s a must-have for health and peace of mind.
Passive vs Active Systems: Key Differences
If you’re a Calgary homeowner looking to understand what are the differences between passive and active radon mitigation systems, you’re likely balancing performance, cost, and long-term reliability. Calgary Radon Detection helps demystify how these systems perform, especially under the unique conditions of Calgary’s homes and climate. Here’s a breakdown of how passive and active systems stack up in real-world scenarios.
Cost Comparison
Passive radon mitigation systems are generally less expensive to install because they require no fan or electrical wiring. They are often included in new constructions as part of building code compliance. Active systems, by contrast, involve an in-line fan, electrical hook-up, and may cost more up-front—typically ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 in Calgary homes. However, that initial investment pays off in performance reliability.
“Active systems cost more initially but deliver consistently lower radon levels.”
Effectiveness in Different Conditions
Calgary’s distinct seasons, especially its cold winters, significantly affect system efficiency. Passive systems rely on natural air pressure differentials, which can fluctuate with temperatures. During freeze-thaw cycles, airflow can slow, allowing radon to accumulate. Active systems maintain consistent suction regardless of exterior conditions, making them ideal for year-round control in Calgary properties.
“Passive systems don’t use electricity, but their effectiveness can vary in Calgary’s winter climate.”
Energy Consumption and Maintenance
Active systems operate a fan 24/7, drawing a small amount of electricity—typically between $20 and $60 per year. Maintenance includes occasional fan replacement every 5–10 years and checking that the exhaust is unobstructed. Passive systems require little to no maintenance but may not meet required thresholds without active upgrades.
“A typical radon fan adds about $20–$60/year to energy bills.”
Long-Term Performance
Over the long term, active radon mitigation systems offer the most dependable radon level reductions. Passive systems may perform well under ideal conditions, but their variability poses a risk, especially in homes built before 2015 when radon-preventative measures were not standardized in Calgary.
Bottom line: For most Calgary homes, active systems provide a higher level of assurance in maintaining safe indoor air quality.
Which Type Is Best for Calgary Homes?
Choosing between a passive or active radon mitigation system shouldn’t be a guessing game—especially in Calgary where climate, construction practices, and regional radon levels vary widely. Calgary Radon Detection helps local property owners navigate the decision by focusing on factors that are uniquely relevant to homes in southern Alberta.
Local Regulations and Guidelines
In Calgary, the Alberta Building Code requires radon rough-ins for all new homes, which typically means a passive system. However, municipal guidelines emphasize testing post-construction. The City of Calgary encourages all homeowners—especially in higher-risk zones like northwest and southeast communities—to test for radon, regardless of passive system presence.
“City of Calgary recommends post-construction radon testing in all new homes.”
Soil and Construction Considerations
Calgary’s glacial soils and sandy clay compositions promote radon gas accumulation beneath foundations. Homes with finished basements, multiple slab levels, or poor sub-slab ventilation are more likely to experience elevated radon levels. Passive systems often aren’t sufficient in these complex home builds, making active systems a safer long-term investment.
Climate Impact on System Choice
Winter in Calgary brings major fluctuations in barometric pressure and frequent freeze-thaw cycles. These can suppress the airflow required by passive systems to vent radon outdoors. Active systems maintain steady airflow despite external temperatures, making them more resilient to cold-weather variations.
“Freeze-thaw cycles in Calgary can impair the effectiveness of passive-only systems.”
Homeowners should tailor mitigation to local conditions—not just building codes.
When Should You Upgrade from Passive to Active?
If your home in Calgary already has a passive radon mitigation system, you might wonder whether it’s actually working. Knowing when to upgrade to an active system can protect your health and ensure long-term indoor air safety. Calgary Radon Detection provides clear guidelines to help homeowners make informed decisions.
Radon Testing Thresholds
Health Canada strongly advises mitigation when indoor radon levels exceed 200 Bq/m³. Even homes equipped with passive venting can reach or surpass this limit, especially during winter months. Long-term digital radon monitors or alpha track detectors placed for 90+ days give the most accurate readings.
“Health Canada recommends mitigation when radon test levels are above 200 Bq/m³.”
Signs Passive System Is Insufficient
Chronic readings above 150–200 Bq/m³—even with a passive pipe in place—signal the need for upgrading to an active system. Additional signs include dust-clogged vent pipes, no backdraft ventilation, or readings that spike during colder months. Calgary homeowners who remodeled their basements after construction should also retest and reassess.
“Dust buildup, improper venting, or high winter readings signal passive system underperformance.”
Don’t wait for readings to rise—proactive upgrades save time, cost, and health down the line.
Installation, Testing, and Maintenance Tips
To ensure your radon mitigation system is effective, it’s critical to get expert installation and follow-up testing—especially in Calgary’s shifting soil and climate conditions. Calgary Radon Detection recommends these key practices for lasting performance and peace of mind.
Choosing a Certified Mitigation Contractor
Always hire a C-NRPP (Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program)-certified contractor. These professionals understand local geology, follow best practices, and use equipment that’s proven to work in Calgary’s challenging soil and temperature environment. Cheap or DIY solutions often miss critical sealing or vent placement.
“Look for C-NRPP certified radon mitigation professionals in Calgary.”
Post-Installation Testing
Testing doesn’t stop once the fan is running—every system must be verified. After installation, a long-term radon test (minimum 90 days) should be conducted to confirm levels have dropped below 200 Bq/m³. If not, the system may need adjustments, such as added suction points or stronger fans.
“Always conduct a long-term radon test after any mitigation work.”
Ongoing Monitoring and Upkeep
Active systems include fans that wear over time. Use a digital radon monitor to track average daily levels. Systems should be inspected annually for damage or airflow blockage, especially after harsh Calgary winters. A non-functioning fan is the most common failure homeowners miss until radon levels rise again.
“Monitoring devices can alert you to future risks or fan failure.”
Ready for safer air? Book your radon consultation with Calgary’s certified mitigation team today.
Conclusion and Action Steps
Whether you’re building a new home in Calgary, living in a property with a passive system, or haven’t tested your radon levels yet, knowing the difference between passive and active radon mitigation matters. Your family’s health depends on making the right choice, backed by reliable data and certified local expertise from Calgary Radon Detection.
Recap of Key Takeaways
- Passive systems are less expensive but typically less effective in Calgary’s variable climate.
- Active systems offer consistent radon reduction and are ideal for most Calgary homes.
- Upgrade if your radon level is above 200 Bq/m³—even with a pre-installed passive system.
- Always verify performance with long-term testing and regular system checks.
“Every Calgary home is different—proper testing and certified system installation ensures long-term protection.”
Contacting Local Experts
Calgary Radon Detection provides C-NRPP-certified testing, system installation, and monitoring services. If you’re unsure whether your current setup meets safety guidelines, contact our trusted local team today. We’ll help you breathe easier tomorrow.
“Peace of mind is one consultation away.”
Protect your home today. Schedule a certified radon test with Calgary Radon Detection and breathe safer tomorrow.
