Why are radon concentrations generally higher in the winter?

Radon concentrations are generally higher in the winter primarily due to closed conditions of houses. During colder months, homeowners tend to keep their windows and doors shut to conserve heat, which results in reduced ventilation within homes. This closed environment prevents the radon gas, which can seep in from the ground, from dissipating, leading to an accumulation of radon levels.

While other factors, such as outdoor temperature and levels of ventilation, may influence indoor air quality, the specific behavior of sealing homes tightly against cold air during winter creates an environment where radon can build up more significantly. This is critical for understanding why monitoring for radon is especially important during the winter months, as elevated concentrations can pose health risks. Keeping homes closed contributes to higher radon levels, thereby underscoring the importance of regular radon testing even in areas that are not typically considered high-risk.