RMS Diagnostic Testing & Troubleshooting

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of performing diagnostic testing before installing a radon mitigation system?

Accepted Answer

To determine optimal sub-slab communication and suction point locations

Answer

To calculate the home's total square footage

Answer

To measure indoor air quality for other pollutants

Answer

To verify the building's electrical capacity

Question 2

During a pressure field extension test, a manometer is inserted into a diagnostic hole. What result indicates good sub-slab communication?

Accepted Answer

A negative pressure reading similar to that at the suction pit

Answer

A positive pressure reading at the diagnostic hole

Answer

No pressure change at the diagnostic hole

Answer

A reading of exactly zero pascals

Question 3

A smoke pencil or puffer is used during radon diagnostic testing primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Identify air pathways and verify airflow direction around the foundation

Answer

Test for carbon monoxide leaks in the gas line

Answer

Measure radon concentration in soil gas

Answer

Calibrate a continuous radon monitor

Question 4

When probing multiple diagnostic holes, what finding indicates that a second suction point is necessary?

Accepted Answer

One or more sections show no negative pressure response

Answer

All holes show equal negative pressure

Answer

The fan is drawing too much current

Answer

Radon levels drop after installing the first suction point

Question 5

A mitigation fan is operating but post-mitigation radon tests show levels above 4 pCi/L. Which diagnostic step should be performed first?

Accepted Answer

Check for air bypasses such as open sumps, cracks, or uncapped drains

Answer

Replace the fan immediately

Answer

Install additional fans in series

Answer

Increase the fan exhaust height

Question 6

What does a U-tube manometer permanently installed on a mitigation system allow a homeowner to monitor?

Accepted Answer

Whether the fan is maintaining negative pressure in the suction pipe

Answer

The indoor radon concentration level

Answer

The outdoor radon concentration

Answer

Fan motor operating temperature

Question 7

When troubleshooting a system that has lost vacuum while the fan continues running, which component should be inspected first?

Accepted Answer

The suction pipe for cracks, disconnections, or blockages

Answer

The electrical panel breaker

Answer

The radon test kit expiration date

Answer

The exterior concrete slab surface