In many cases dangerous radon levels can be reduced to safe levels by using a radon cover for sump pump basins. Both of the Jackel and RadonAway radon covers for sump pumps can replace an existing basin cover.
However, the best time to install a radon cover for sump pump systems is when the basin and pump are first installed.
The main differences between radon sump pump covers are:
- Is there a separate hole for a radon vent pipe?
- Must the sump pump be disconnected to remove the cover?
- Is there a way to inspect without disconnceting the sump pump?
Basic Radon Cover for Sump Pump Installation
Remove the old sump pump cover if there is one.
With the Jackel radon sump basin covers the base of the cover is bolted into the concrete floor and sealed with silicone caulk.
Then the sump pump is placed into the sump basin and the removable cover is placed over the discharge pipe and radon vent pipe. There are gaskets to make air tight seals.
When installing the RadonAway sump basin cover, customers have just sealed the entire cover to the concrete floor with a silicone caulk.
Jackel vs RadonAway Radon Cover Price Differences
At first glance, the Jackel radon cover for sump pump use is more expensive than the RadonAway brand. However, by the time you buy extra parts to seal up the RadonAway radon lid, it might be more expensive.
The Jackel Original Radon/Sump Dome™
There are three versions of the Jackel Original Radon Sump Dome.
Jackel Model SMR16101-CV
The newest version Jackel Model SMR16101-CV is the most universal and easily used radon sump lid. It is a little more expensive than the older models, but it is the best value.
Easiest to use and the best value. Comes with a clear plastic inspection port. Check the price > Click Here
The clear plastic inspection port will sometimes fog up. However, the bolts securing the port can be removed if need be for inspection.
Jackel Model SMR114-V Radon Dome
Budget priced and simple universal radon cover. Inspection lid can be removed without disconnecting the sump pump. Does not have a radon vent hole. Take a look > Click Here
The Jackel Model SMR114-V radon dome does not have as many holes or parts to adapt to your needs. Making it potentially more difficult to use.
However, if you just need the discharge pipe and power cord holes, it will save a few dollars.
The lid comes in two parts. The larger part can be unbolted to allow for inspection without removing the sump pump.
Jackel Radon Cover For Sump Pump Model SMR16101
Another budget priced radon lid with radon vent hole. Does not have an inspection port. Check the price > Click Here
The one piece removable lid has three holes for the discharge pipe, radon vent pipe and power cord. However, the sump pump must be disconnected for inspection.
Although an inspection port can be purchased separately. That would require drilling another hole into the radon cover.
RadonAway Sump Pump Dome Cover Lid with Window
The large inspection port window makes it easy to check on the sump pumps operation. The section of the cover that holds the plastic window can be removed by removing the attachment bolts.
Got Tools and Time to Spare?
Homeowners will spend more time assembling the RadonAway cover. It comes in three parts. Two lid parts and a brace. That is the easy part.
Also, you have to drill out your own holes for the discharge pipe and power cord.
You will need a 2-inch diameter hole to fit a 1.5-inch interior PVC pipe which has a 2-inch diameter exterior. Additionally, use the hole saw to make another hole for the power cord.
Use this 2 inch diameter hole saw to create the discharge pipe and power cord holes. Get it here
A 3 1/2 inch or 4-1/2 Inch Hole Saw will be needed to cut the radon gas vent hole. The 4 inch pvc pipe (41/2 inch exterior diameter) is quieter than the 3 inch PVC pipe.
Plus, you have to figure out how to make a tight seal around the discharge pipe, power cord and radon vent pipe.
For example, you could use a pipe boot plus a tube of silicone caulk and a caulk gun. Get another one of these boots to seal the power cord hole. Plus, a larger boot for the radon exhaust pipe.
Flexible pipe boot to seal the holes in the sump pump cover and seal around the PVC pipes and power cord. See it here.
If you need a separate radon gas vent pipe, that will require another hole. A radon vent is normally a 3.5-inch exterior diameter PVC pipe. However, when larger air volumes are being expelled a 4.5-inch exterior diameter PVC is needed. Also, even at lower air volumes the larger pipe is quieter and may be preferable.
Note: The three holes should be spaced far enough apart so that the boots do not overlap each other. The base of the boots already mentioned are 4 ¾ inches diameter at the base. The 4.5-inch pipe size takes a boot that has a base diameter of 7 ¾ inches.
Sump Pump Cover Inspection Port
Use the 41/2 inch hole saw mentioned above to cut the hole for this sump cover port. Also, use some silicone caulk when attaching the base to the cover. The clear plastic cover can be screwed in or out and has a rubber o-ring that forms a good seal.
Customers love this 4 inch inspection port for sump pump covers. If the basin cover doesn’t have a window or viewing port, get this today. Click Here
The Best Radon Cover For Sump Pump Choice
In my opinion the best choice is the Jackel Model SMR16101-CV radon cover. It has the the easiest installation because all of the holes are factory made and every adaptor and seal needed is provided.
Second best and a little less expensive is the Jackel Radon Sump Pump Cover Model SMR16101. It has a radon vent hole but does not have the view window.
Related articles:
Perforated Jackel Sump Basin Review 18 x 24 Inch (SF22A-DR)
Jackel Sewage Basin Review 30-45-72-110 Gallon Comparisons
