Radon exhaust system with a diagnostic bypass filter apparatus

A radon exhaust system comprising an exhaust side with a vent housing, a diagnostic bypass filter apparatus providing observation windows, a removable observation window, internal ice and object filter, internal ribbon flow indicators, internal water gutter with drain spout, an exhaust fan and a suction side coupled together to form a conduit through which gaseous fluid may be conveyed. The diagnostic bypass filter apparatus provides an enlarged elliptical air passage bulge and angular bend configuration having three observation windows, a fourth removable observation window, an internal ice and object filter, ribbon flow indicators, and an internal water gutter with drain spout for providing protection of the exhaust fan from falling ice, water and objects and visual inspection for flow in the exhaust system and access to the filter for cleaning.

BACKGROUND

Radon is a cancer causing radioactive gas fluid that has been found in homes all over the United States. Radon typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into a building through cracks and other holes in the floor. You cannot see, smell or taste radon.

Sub-slab depressurization is the most common radon mitigation technique which requires several installation steps.

The radon mitigation system is a continuous piping system beginning under a house concrete basement slab, and terminating outside and above the house.

An inline radon fan is installed in the piping system to draw the radon laced air from under the basement concrete slab to the outside and above the house.

The radon-laced air is pulled from under the basement concrete floor slab by the radon fan and pushed up the exhaust pipe and dispersed harmlessly into the atmosphere.

The radon-laced air is at earth temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit with a high percent of moisture content. This produces air with high humidity content being vented through the radon mitigation system. Radon mitigation protocol requires that radon mitigation systems be operational continuously. The radon mitigation system continues to operate during warm periods of the year and winter freezing periods of the year. During warmer periods, the humid air will turn to condensate and fall back into the radon fan in the form of water which causes damage to the radon fan.

Freezing temperatures in the atmosphere during the winter causes condensate to turn to ice in the radon mitigation system exhaust pipe. As more moist air is blown into the exhaust pipe, ice continues to build and restrict air movement in the upper portion of the exhaust pipe. as the exhaust pipe becomes blocked with ice, the radon mitigation system becomes inoperative. During the warmer periods the ice breaks apart from the exhaust pipe and falls into the radon fan, causing fan damage. It is common for winter nights to freeze and winter days to thaw, resulting in many freeze-thaw cycles during a winter season.

Adding to the ice build-up problem is the birds and animals and debris screen-cap, which often installed at the top end of the exhaust pipe where the humid air is exposed to the freezing temperature of the atmosphere. The screen-cap, installed at the top of the exhaust pipe is directly exposed to freezing temperatures, thus the screen compounds the ice build-up problem as it catches moisture from the air passing through the screen and increases ice build-up. The ice will partially melt, and pieces will break off and drop down into the radon fan, causing damage. The damage to the radon fan from falling ice is a health and economic problem because when the radon fan is not operating, radon is not being removed from the house.

Therefore, for the health and welfare of building occupants it would desirable to provide a means to correct these issues.

2. Prior Art

Currently a radon fan can be somewhat protected from returning water with a condensate bypass apparatus U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 issued to Weaver, Mar. 4, 2003. However U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means to eliminate the birds and animals screen at the exit point of the exhaust pipe which contributes to undesirable ice build-up. U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means to stop ice, birds and animals, debris or rain water from falling into the radon fan. U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means for an access port to allow cleaning, inspections or maintenance or a closure device, such as a closure plug, for its access port. U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 does not provide a means for an angled shaped housing. U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 claim 1, limits the condensate trap to a conically shaped sloping outer surface configuration.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 states in claim 4 that an exhaust fan apparatus comprising a housing having an exhaust port.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 states in claim 4 that the exhaust conduit is coupled to said exhaust port.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 states in claim 4 that a condensate trap located within said exhaust conduit. U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,005 claim number 5 states that the condensate trap is integral with said housing of said exhaust fan apparatus.

Application No. 1306820, does not address the issue of the screen, gutter and trough creating air resistance that reduces the amount of air passing through the separator housing.

Application No. 1306820, does not include observation windows within the cap.

Application No. 1306820 does not include observation windows on the sides of the separator housing.

Application No. 1306820 does not include non-mechanical air flow indicators within the separator housing.

Application No. 1306820 does not include mechanical air flow indicators within the separator housing.

Application No. 1306820 does not include an enlarger air passage bulge area within the separator housing to address air resistance.

Application No. 1306820 does not prevent rain water from entering the radon mitigation system.

Application No. 1306820 does not address the issue of moist air originating from the damp sub-soil freezing on the metal surface of the birds and animals screen.

Application No. 1306820 does not include a screen support and gutter floor combined as one and additionally combined as one with the separator housing wall, making the gutter floor, screen support and separator housing to be one unit.

Traditionally steel mesh screen has been installed at the end of the exhaust pipe to keep birds and animals from entering the exhaust pipe. Several problems arise when using a metal screen mesh.

The first problem is that the screen will cause air passage restrictions because of the blockage of air, which can reduce the efficiency of an active mitigation system's fan.

The second problem is the location of the steel screen at the top of the exhaust pipe, where the freezing winter temperatures has a direct freezing effect on the metal wire of the screen causing it to be frozen.

The radon laced air being drawn from under the building concrete slab is often 100% humidity, this means that on some days as much as one gallon of water passes through the mitigation exhaust pipe and through the metal screen. As the humid air comes in contact with the frozen metal screen, ice begins to build up and can choke off the air passage completely. This can cause the active radon mitigation system to have unnecessary strain or shut down, causing harm to the fan and putting the building occupants at a health risk.

The same problems can exist in a passive radon mitigation system even though there is no fan in a passive radon mitigation system.

The third problem with the traditional metal screen at the top of the exhaust pipe is that rain water is allowed to enter the exhaust pipe, possibly causing damage to the radon mitigation fan. Fan manufactures recommend that water not be allow within the fan housing.

The present embodiment comprises a diagnostic bypass filter housing and a vent housing that prevents debris, birds and animals, ice and rain water from entering a gaseous fluid mitigation system.

The present embodiment further compensates air flow restrictions with an additional air flow area within the diagnostic bypass filter housing, thus reducing fan stress and allowing the fan's air production to pass through the diagnostic bypass filter housing and vent housing with no added resistance.

By preventing additional air flow resistance to the radon fan, less electricity is consumed and the fan does not operate under additional load stress. Radon fans have a longer life if objects and water are not ingested and air flow is not restricted.

The present embodiment further comprises means to monitor and observe conditions within the diagnostic bypass filter housing to further extend the useful life of the radon fan.

DRAWINGS

Reference Numerals

200. Gaseous fluid mitigation system, exterior.202. Gaseous fluid mitigation system, interior.300. Assembly of diagnostic bypass filter housing, connector and vent housing320. Assembly of radon exhaust fan, diagnostic bypass filter housing, connector and vent housing.400. Assembly of diagnostic bypass filter housing, radon exhaust fan, removable fastener and coupling.500. Assembly of diagnostic bypass filter housing, radon fan, non-removable connector.10. Diagnostic bypass filter housing10A. Prior Art of unimproved condensate housing.10B. Transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing.11. Observation window, rear.11a. Closure cap of access opening11b. Access opening12. Observation windows, left and right side13. Observation window, front15. Circular ice filter.15a. Circular ice filter, supported by gutter floor.20. Plumbing pipe elbow, exhaust21. Plumbing pipe, exhaust.22. Support bracket.23. Vent housing.23A. Vent upper curvature opening.23B. Vent lower curvature opening.23C. Elongated vent exhaust opening.23D. Vent wall.23E. Transparent vent housing.23F. Vent housing port, suction.23G. Vent housing top.24. Flexible exhaust coupling.25. Gaseous fluid exhaust (Radon) fan.25A. Assembly of fan, diagnostic bypass filter housing, connector and vent housing.25b. Removable fastener25c. Removable coupling26. Flexible suction coupling.27. Plumbing pipe elbow, suction.28. Plumbing pipe, suction.30. Assembly of filter, gutter and drain spout.32. Drain spout.32a. Drain spout opening.34. Water gutter.34a. Water gutter floor.34b. Water gutter wall.34c. Gutter, filter support.40. Multiple circumferences of suction port.41. Circular suction port.42. Multiple circumferences of exhaust port.43. Circular exhaust port.44. 360 degree rotation of diagnostic bypass filter housing.46. Permanent connector.50. Connector.60. Prior art of condensate air passage area.61. Support for ice filter62. Prior art of screen.63. Prior art of screen support.64. Prior art of gutter.65. Prior art of Air turbulence and air redirection.68. Prior art of water drain.70. Prior art of metal birds and animals screen.“B” Bulge, enlarged elliptical air passage bulge area“C” Air flow corridor.“F” Concrete floor slab.“M” Mechanical air flow indicator.“R” Non-mechanical air flow indicator, ribbon.“S” Sub-soil.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present embodiment comprising a gaseous fluid mitigation system protective apparatus to prevent destructive objects from entering a gaseous fluid mitigation (radon) system, without producing a loss of air flow volume. The present embodiment additionally, monitors gaseous fluid mitigation system performance without producing a loss of air flow volume

FIG. 1shows the side view of an exterior gaseous fluid mitigation system200, with a continuous air movement piping system from the sub-soil “S” below the building concrete floor slab “F” to above a roof edge of the building. The radon exhaust fan25draws radon laced air from under the building concrete floor slab “F” and sends the radon laced air through the exterior gaseous fluid mitigation system200to be expelled through the tubular vent housing23into the atmosphere.

All components below the gaseous fluid mitigation exhaust (radon) fan25, including hollow suction plumbing pipe28, hollow suction plumbing elbow27, hollow suction flexible coupling26, comprise the suction side of a radon mitigation system.

All components above the radon fan25, including a hollow exhaust flexible coupling adapter24, diagnostic bypass filter housing10, hollow exhaust plumbing elbow20, hollow exhaust plumbing pipe21, vent housing23. The hollow exhaust plumbing pipe21, being supported by a plumbing pipe support bracket22, comprises the exhaust side of a radon mitigation system.

The mitigation system200on the suction side is a hollow suction plumbing pipe28, which extends from below a floor slab “F”, exits the building wall and is connected to a hollow suction plumbing elbow27, which is connected to a hollow flexible coupling26. The flexible coupling26is connected to the downward suction port of a radon fan25. The radon fan25is connected at its upward exhaust port to a hollow flexible coupling24, which then connects to the suction port41of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The diagnostic bypass filter housing10connects, on the exhaust port43to elbow20, which connects to pipe21, which is secured to a building wall by brackets22. The pipe21is connected to the lower air receiving end of the vent23, which is located above the building roof edge. The vent23, being open at its lower receiving end23F, receives radon laced air driven by the radon fan25up through the mitigation system200and expels the same radon laced air through air openings23C on the vertical surface of vent23.

The vent23is described as a tubular shaped apparatus, open to receive radon laced air at the lower receiving vent port23F and closed at the top end23G to prevent the intrusion of rain water and destructive objects. Elongated and downward venting exhaust openings23C occupy the circular vertical wall surface to allow maximum air flow while restricting rain water and destructive objects from entering the mitigation system200.

I contemplate that the radon fan25be any one of multiple models and sizes manufactured by any one of multiple manufactures and being well known in the radon mitigation industry.

At present I contemplate that pipes28&21, elbows and brackets,27&20&22, to be manufactured of Plastic material, in sizes 2″ to 12″diameter, but other materials and sizes are also suitable. At present I contemplate that flexible couplings26&24be manufactured of a rubber formula in sizes 2″ to 12″diameter to join plumbing components of different sizes but other materials and sizes are suitable. The flexible couplings26&24having an adjustable metal band for securing an airtight seal. Hollow flexible couplings with adjustable metal bands are well known in the radon mitigation and plumbing industry.

The mitigation system200, is a continuous airtight passageway for moving radon laced air from the building sub-soil and expelling it safely above a roof of the building. Radon mitigation systems are individually custom designed at the job site and installed by professionals in the radon mitigation industry.

FIG. 1Ashows the side view of an interior gaseous fluid mitigation system202, with a continuous passageway for moving radon laced air from the building sub-soil “S” and expelling it safely above the building roof. Radon mitigation systems are individually custom designed at the job site and installed by professionals in the radon mitigation industry.

The radon exhaust fan25draws radon laced air from the sub-soil “S” under the floor slab “F” and sends the radon laced air through the interior gaseous fluid mitigation system202to be expelled through the vent23into the atmosphere.

All components below the radon fan25, including pipe28, elbow27and flexible coupling26, comprises the suction side of a radon mitigation system.

All components above the radon fan25, including coupling24, diagnostic bypass filter housing10, elbow20, pipe21, vent23and pipe21, being supported by bracket22, comprises the exhaust side of a radon mitigation system.

Mitigation system202on the suction side is pipe28, which extends from below a floor slab “F”, exits the building wall and is connected to elbow27, which is connected to coupling26. The coupling26is connected to the downward suction port of a radon fan25. The radon fan25, is connected at its upward exhaust port to flexible coupling24, which then connects to the suction port41of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The diagnostic bypass filter housing10connects at its exhaust port43to elbow20, which connects to pipe21, which is secured to the building wall by bracket22. The pipe21is connected to the lower receiving end of the vent housing23F, which is located above the building roof. The vent23, being open at its lower vent port23F, receives radon laced air driven by the radon fan25, up through the mitigation system202and expels the same radon laced air through elongated and downward venting exhaust openings23C on the vertical surface of the vent23. The vent23is a tubular shaped apparatus, which is open to receive the radon laced air at the vent port23F which is closed at the top23G to prevent the intrusion of rain water and destructive objects.

Exhaust openings23C occupy the circular vent housing wall23D to allow unrestricted radon laced air exhaust while preventing intrusion of rain water and destructive objects from entering the mitigation system202.

At present I contemplate that pipes28&21, elbows and brackets27&20&22to be manufactured of plastic material and sized from 2″ to 12′ diameter, but other materials and sizes are also suitable.

At present I contemplate that couplings26&24be manufactured of a rubber formula with multiple sizes at both ends to join plumbing components of different sizes, including joining to a radon fan25and joining to diagnostic bypass filter housing10with different port circumference sizes40&42.

At present I contemplate the housing ports40&42be made of plastic and 1/16″ to 5/16″ thick body wall but other materials and body thicknesses are suitable. The couplings26&24having an adjustable metal band with means to be tightened to secure an airtight seal. Flexible couplings are well known in the radon mitigation and plumbing industry. The mitigation system202, being a continuous airtight passageway for moving radon laced air from the sub-soil “S” and expelling it safely above a building roof.

Radon mitigation systems are individually custom designed at a job site and installed by professionals in the radon mitigation industry.

FIG. 1Bshows a detail cross sectional view of the vent wall23D of the vent23, with upper curvature surface23A of the exhaust openings23C and lower curvature surface23B of the exhaust openings23C to allow air flow and prevent intrusion into the vent23from rain or destructive objects. Exhaust openings23C are open on the inside of vent housing wall23D at a higher elevation and proceed downward to open on the outside of vent housing wall23D at a lower elevation to restrict gravity controlled rain water from entering the vent23. The exhaust openings23C of the vent23allows air flow passage while disallowing intrusion of rain water or destructive objects. The multiple openings are sized and shaped to allow maximum air flow and prevent the intrusion of rain water and destructive objects. The air flow capacity of the exhaust openings23C exceeds the capacity of air passing through the mitigation systems200&202.

The larger air flow capacity of the exhaust openings23C of the vent23exceeds the air volume delivered by the radon mitigation fan25. The vent23is not a restrictor of air volume delivered by the mitigation system200. At present I contemplate that the vent23be manufactured of plastic with 1/16″ to 5/16″ thick wall and 2″ to 12″ tubular circumference, but other materials, sizes and thicknesses are suitable.

FIG. 1Cshows another embodiment of the gaseous fluid mitigation system protection apparatus, comprising a bypass housing10, vent23and hollow connector50. The diagnostic bypass filter housing10, vent23and hollow connector50are joined at the job site as one assembled unit300when required by custom job site installation conditions.

The vent23is a hollow, circular shaped embodiment, which receives radon laced air at the vent port23F and expels the radon laced air through the exhaust openings23C.

Another embodiment is the transparent vent housing23E which is manufactured with a transparent plastic material. Solar heat enters the transparent vent23E and thaws ice build-up within the transparent vent23E. The thawing of ice build-up within the transparent vent23E clears ice blockage and improves air movement within the transparent vent23E. The ice blockage produces air flow resistance which causes strain and damage to the radon fan25.

Another embodiment is the transparent vent cap23G, which is manufactured from transparent plastic. The vent cap23G, located at the top of vent23E prevents the intrusion of rain water and damaging objects from entering the vent23E and transparent vent housing23E. Additionally, the vent cap23G allows solar heat and solar light to enter the vent23or the transparent vent23E to assist in preventing ice build-up within the vents23&23E.

Another embodiment is the mechanical air flow indicator “M”, which measures air flow within the vent23and vent23E. The monitoring of air flow by the mechanical air flow indicator “M” reports the operational efficiency of the mitigation system200. Mechanical air flow indicators are well known in the industry.

FIG. 1Dshows another embodiment of radon fan25A connected directly to the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is connected directly to the connector50, the connector50is connected directly to the vent23and are joined at the job site as one assembled unit320.

The side view of the gaseous fluid mitigation system, comprising pipe28, which is connected to elbow27, which is connected to flexible coupling26. The flexible coupling26is attached to the radon fan25A. Radon laced air is blown by the radon fan25A through the vent23. Radon fan25A being radon fan25connected directly to the diagnostic bypass filter housing10eliminating flexible coupling24.

Other embodiments are the transparent vent23E and the transparent vent cap23G, which allows solar heat to enter and assist in reducing ice build-up within the transparent vent23E.

FIG. 2shows a rear view of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, comprising of an enlarged air passage bulge area “B” to receive and accommodate additional air flow volume as the air passes through the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

The diagnostic bypass filter housing10, comprising an observation window11within the access opening male threaded closure cap11a. The observation window11within the closure cap11apermits visual monitoring of conditions and air movement within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. Additionally, solar light enters the observation window11to assist with visual monitoring within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

FIG. 2Ashows another embodiment of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. Left and right side observation windows12are located on both sides of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to allow internal observation of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10from either side and to allow additional lighting to enter the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to assist observation quality. The rear window11is located within the closure cap11ato allow internal observation of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10from the rear side and to allow additional lighting to enter the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to assist observation quality.

The front side observation window13is located on the front side of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to provide an additional observation angle and allow solar light and solar heat within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. Window13additionally allows ice melting solar heat to enter the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. Windows11,12and13allow solar heat to enter the bypass housing10to assist the melting process of ice suspended by the ice filter15.

Internal observation of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is required to monitor air flow indicators “R” & “M” and observe general operational conditions. The enlarged air passage bulge area “B” provides an expanded area for air passage. The water drain spout32exits the bypass diagnostic bypass filter housing10on the front side to carry water away which is collected by the water gutter34within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

FIG. 3shows a side view of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, comprising the bulge area “B” of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10which allows additional air passage through the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. Diagnostic bypass filter housing10comprises a window11within the closure cap11aon the rear side of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, which allows visual monitoring, solar lighting and solar heating of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10interior.

Another embodiment is window13, located on the front side of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, to allow visual monitoring, additional solar lighting and solar heating within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10interior.

Another embodiment are the left and right side observation windows12located on both sides of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, to allow visual interior monitoring, solar lighting and solar heating within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10interior. The water drain spout32exits the bypass housing front side to carry water by gravity out of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

FIG. 4shows side view of prior art of an unimproved condensate bypass housing10A, comprising a screen62and gutter64which restricts air volume passage through a housing10A. Additionally an air passage area60is decreased in capacity by screen supports63. Air forced around screen supports63, gutter64and through screen62, causes air volume reduction and air turbulence65. The air flow reduction and turbulence65decreases the efficiency of a radon fan25causing extra wear and damage. This prior art fails to compensate for the air flow reduction and turbulence65within its bypass housing10A, resulting in an inefficient radon mitigation system and stress to a radon fan25. There are different designs of prior art condensate bypass devices that create air flow restrictions.

FIG. 4Ashows side view of prior art of unimproved condensate bypass housing10A and prior art of unimproved metal birds and animals screen70, as part of an unimproved exterior radon mitigation system. The horizontal birds and animals screen reduces air passage flow by its metal wire mesh, which is an air flow restriction. Ice formation during freezing weather on the horizontal surface of the metal mesh of the birds and animals screen70will restrict additional air passage. Freezing rain forms additional ice blockage on the horizontal surface of a metal birds and animals screen70. During freezing weather a metal horizontal birds and animals screen70can become completely air blocked, resulting in a non-performing mitigation system.

An unimproved bypass housing10A, comprising a reduced air passage area60and additional air restrictions from the drain68, gutter64and screen62further reduces the operational efficiency of a radon system. The unimproved bypass housing10A does not benefit from the improvements offered by the present embodiments.

FIG. 5shows another embodiment of the rear cross sectional view of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10comprising window13in front side of diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The water gutter34is positioned within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to receive water which will be drained away by the water drain spout32. Ice and debris are retained by the ice filter15to prevent damage to the radon fan25. Trapped debris is removed through the access opening11b.

Another embodiment is the screen support61within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10which is the base holding the circular ice filter15. The screen support61is an extension of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10wall and is as one part of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10wall.

Other embodiments are the non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” attached within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to measure air velocity and air volume as it passes through the air flow corridor “C” of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” may be made of a flexible, light-weight material attached at its bottom to filter15, with its upper portion, lifted upwardly by air flow produced from below by a radon fan25.

An example of an air flow indicator “R” is a lightweight material such as a fluttering ribbon extended upward by the force of passing air from below generated by a radon fan25. The fluttering ribbons of non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” may be attached to filter15and its performance monitored through windows11,12&13. Monitoring the non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” through windows11,12&13, provides visual system performance evaluation without entering the bypass housing10. At present I contemplate the ribbons be made of nylon but other materials are suitable.

FIG. 6shows rear cross sectional view of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10comprising an observation window13at front of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The water gutter34is positioned within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to receive water which is drained out of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10through the water drain spout32. Ice and debris are retained by the filter15.

Another embodiment is the mechanical air flow indicator “M” attached onto and within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to measure air movement conditions as the air passes through the air flow corridor “C” of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The mechanical air flow indicator “M” monitors the air flow velocity and volume.

At present I contemplate the use of a manometer but other devices are suitable. The measurement of air pressure, air flow and air velocity are necessary to monitor and evaluate the performance of a gaseous fluid mitigation system.

FIG. 7shows the side view of another embodiment, the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B. The transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B is composed of a plastic formula to withstand direct sunlight conditions and allow solar light and solar heat to enter the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B.

The air flow corridor “C” is expanded through the bulge area “B” to allow additional air passage to compensate for assembly30obstructions. The transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B will allow internal observation within the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B. At present I contemplate the use of transparent plastic, 1/16″ to 5/16″ thick, but other materials and thicknesses are suitable.

Another embodiment is the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B allows solar light for clearer observation and solar heat to penetrate the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B to assist the melting of fallen ice, which is resting on the filter15. The bulge area “B” of the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B allows an expansion of the air flow corridor “C” for additional air passage to offset restrictions caused by the filter15, gutter34and the non-mechanical air flow indicator “R”.

Another embodiment is the circular shape of the suction port41and the circular shape of the exhaust port43to mate with radon fan25circular ports and circular openings of other standard plumbing pipe and plumbing system components.

Another embodiment is the forty-five degree angle of the circular suction port41in relationship to the circular exhaust port43of the transparent monitoring, diagnostic bypass filter housing10B. The forty-five degree angle bend of the suction port41in relationship to the exhaust port43is compatible with angles of standard plumbing components.

The forty-five degree bend within the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10B and diagnostic bypass filter housing10is an efficient angle for job site installations and standard plumbing connections. At present I contemplate a forty five degree angle, but other angles, particularly 90 degree angles are suitable. Water drains out of the transparent monitoring, diagnostic bypass filter housing10B through the drain spout32by downward gravity.

FIG. 8shows the filter15, gutter34and drain spout32as one assembly unit30which is located within the bulge area “B” of the bypass housing10. The assembly30is comprised of the filter15, gutter34and drain spout32. The filter15prevents ice or debris from entering the radon fan25.

At present I contemplate the use of stainless steel metal screen mesh with 0.50″ openings for the filter15but other materials and sizes are suitable.

The gutter34, catches water and prevents it from entering the radon fan25. The gutter34has a crescent-shaped gutter floor34a. The gutter floor34aouter edge matches the curvature outer edge of the filter15as it conforms to the roundness of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10wall. The rounded gutter wall34bis right angled to the gutter floor34aand completely connected to gutter floor34aas one unit, which referenced as gutter34.

Another embodiment is that the gutter floor34acan be positioned below and constructed as part of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10and serve as support for the filter15. The gutter34receives water and directs it through the water spout opening32a, which is located in the center of the intersection of the gutter floor34aand the gutter wall34b.

At present I contemplate the use of plastic for the gutter but other materials are suitable.

The water spout32receives water from the gutter34through the water spout opening32aand drains the water away from the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. At present I contemplate the use of plastic for the water spout but other materials and sizes are suitable.

The air resistance created by placing the assembly30within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is compensated for, by the added air space of the bulge area “B” which is described in more detail inFIG. 9.

FIG. 8.1Another embodiment is the positioning of the gutter floor34adirectly atop the support61and under the ice filter15a. Directly atop the gutter floor34athe ice filter15ais positioned. This embodiment allows the gutter floor34ato support the filter15a. The spout opening32ais positioned on the same plane as the gutter floor34aand the drain spout32connects to the gutter wall32aat the spout opening32a. The gutter wall34bis 90 degrees angled to the gutter floor34a.

In this embodiment, the gutter floor34abecomes as one with the support34c,FIG. 11The lower point of the spout opening32aand lower point of the drain spout32are at the same plane as the top of the gutter floor34ato allow gravity induced water drainage out of the bypass housing10.

At present I contemplate the use of plastic for the gutter and bypass housing but other materials are suitable.

FIG. 9Another embodiment of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is its multiple circumference sizes40, of the suction port41and the multiple circumference sizes42, of the exhaust port43. The multiple sizes40of the suction port41and the multiple sizes42of the exhaust port43allow multiple sized connections to other mitigation system components. Air produced by the radon fan25enters the suction port41of the bypass housing10and continues through the air flow corridor “C” of the bypass housing10and exits through the exhaust port43.

At present I contemplate the use of plastic with wall thickness of 1/16″ to 5/16″ for the diagnostic bypass filter housing10, but other materials and thicknesses are suitable.

Another embodiment of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is the female threaded access opening11bon the rear side to allow inspections and servicing the interior of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The closure cap11a, mates with the access opening11bfor an air-tight seal when closed. Located within the closure cap11ais the window11, for monitoring activity within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The window11additionally allows solar light and solar heat to enter into the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to assist interior monitoring.

Other embodiments are windows12, located on each side of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to monitor the non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” allowing solar light and solar heat within the bypass diagnostic bypass filter housing10. Window13, located on the front side of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to monitor the non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” and allow solar light and solar heat within the bypass housing10.

At present I contemplate the use of transparent plastic, 0.25″ thick by 1″ diameter for the observation windows11,12,13, but other materials, sizes, shapes and thicknesses are suitable.

Another embodiment is the bulge area “B”, which allows additional air passage to offset the air flow resistance caused by the assembly30, within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The air flow reduction caused by the assembly30is compensated for by the bulge area “B” within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The bulge area “B” provides added space for air flow corridor “C” to allow additional air passage volume by the expanded circumference at the mid-section of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

Another embodiment is the enlarged circumference of the filter15, sized to fit firmly and completely within the enlarged air passage bulge area “B” of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to provide added air passage. The larger surface area of the filter allows more air flow volume. The outer circumference of filter15, mates with the interior circumference of the bulge area “B”.

Another embodiment of the filter15is the secured position atop the built-in support61, fitting tightly within the bulge area “B”. Another embodiment of the filter15is the connection to the gutter34, which is connected to the drain spout32. The circular filter15, gutter34and drain spout32combine to form the assembly30. The assembly30is located within the bulge area “B” at its largest circumference to maximize air flow passage through the diagnostic bypass filter housing10and prevent damaging objects from entering the radon fan25while expelling water out of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10through the drain spout32. The gutter34is sized and shaped to minimize air resistance while meeting the water containment requirements of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

At present I contemplate the use of plastic 1/16″ to 5/16″ thick for the water gutter and water spout, but other materials and thicknesses are suitable.

FIG. 10another embodiment is the ability to select any degree of a 360 degree rotation44to connect the bypass housing10directly to the radon fan25with the installation of coupling25cand fastener25b. Coupling25cand fastener25bare adjustable, removable and reusable.

A custom job site installation requires adjustments for satisfactory positioning prior to connecting the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to the radon fan25at a selected degree of a 360 degree rotation44. Placement adjustments of radon fan25and diagnostic bypass filter housing10are standard procedure of an on-site radon mitigation installation.

The removable coupling25cand removable fasteners25ballows job site position adjustment of the bypass housing10in relationship to the radon fan25within the 360 degree rotation.

Another embodiment is that the direct connection of the bypass diagnostic bypass filter housing10to the radon fan25eliminates the need for the flexible coupling24of the mitigation system200and the mitigation system202, resulting in the exhaust radon fan25and the bypass housing10being connected with fastener25band coupling25cas a single unit400.

Another embodiment of the coupling25cand fastener25bis the ability to adjust the diagnostic bypass filter housing10by rotation44in relationship to the radon fan25for installation at the job site to accommodate unique job site conditions.

Another embodiment is the connection of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10directly to the radon fan25at any degree of a 360 degree rotation44at a job site with the fastener25band coupling25c, allowing the elimination of the flexible coupling24. At present I contemplate the use of plastic for the coupling and fastener, but other materials are suitable.

FIG. 11another embodiment is the permanent and non-removable adapter46which connects the diagnostic bypass filter housing10directly to the radon fan25at any degree of a 360 degree rotation44at the job site as required by unique job site installation conditions. The job site connection of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to the radon fan25with the permanent and non-removable adapter46provides a means for a radon mitigation installation to conform to unique job site installation conditions as part of the complete installation of the typical radon mitigation system.

Another embodiment is the ability to adjust the position of the bypass diagnostic bypass filter housing10in relationship to the radon fan25as required, prior to the final “lock down” of the permanent and non-removable adapter46. At present I contemplate the use of plastic for the adapter, but other materials are suitable.

Another embodiment is the direct connection of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to the radon fan25with the adapter46allowing elimination of the need for a flexible coupling24.

Another embodiment is the single unit500, which is assembled at the job site, comprising the radon fan25permanently connected to the diagnostic bypass filter housing10by the non-removable coupling46to form this single unit500.

Another embodiment is the gutter, ice filter support34c, which is part of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10. The gutter, ice filter support34cbeing as one with the diagnostic bypass filter housing10as a single embodiment. The combination of the gutter, ice filter support34cand the diagnostic bypass filter housing10allows the ice filter15ato be located above the gutter, ice filter support34c.

The interior front wall of diagnostic bypass filter housing10extends inward towards the center of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10and flairs out to become the gutter floor34c. The inner front wall of the bypass housing tapers into the gutter floor34c. The gutter floor34cis identical to the ice filter support34cwhich is an extension of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10front wall.

Operation

This embodiment composes a diagnostic bypass filter housing10and vent housing23, being airtight with additional embodiments. The diagnostic bypass filter housing10is manufactured with plastic formulas

The diagnostic bypass filter housing10,FIGS. 1,1A,1C,1D,2,2A,3,5,6,9,10and11is mostly hollow, with an angular bend and an elliptical bulge “B”. A circular suction port41receives radon laced air and a circular exhaust port43expels the same radon laced air. Exhaust port43is at a forty-five to ninety degree angle to the suction port41, with the 45 to 90 degree angle bend being at mid-point of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

Placed within the bulge “B” of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is the assembly30, comprising ice filter15,15a, water gutter34and drain spout32.

FIG. 8shows the assembly30resting above the ice filter15.

FIG. 8.1shows the ice filter15aresting on the gutter34a.

FIG. 11shows the gutter34cbeing an extension of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10wall and supporting the ice filter15a.

Another embodiment is the enlarged air passage bulge area “B” located within the midsection of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10and transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10bto accept air flow corridor “C”. The bulge area “B” is an eccentric ellipse shaped expansion of the diagnostic bypass filter housing's10,10bcircumference to provide additional space for the expanded air flow corridor “C”.

Radon fan25operates more efficiently and draws less amperage when there is less resistance. A radon fan25that is designed to operate at maximum efficiency when pushing air through a pipe of a specific size will work harder with additional stress if the pipe's size has been reduced.

The radon mitigation system200and202show the radon fan pulling radon laced air from the sub-soil “S” through the system and exhausting the radon laced air to the atmosphere through vent housing23.

Attempts by others to divert condensate, trap ice, install birds and animals screens, or block rain water intrusion has created air blockages, resulting in strain on the radon fan25. within the mitigation system200.

The air resistance causes the radon fan to draw more amperage, work harder, consume more electricity and wear out sooner. Total air blockage from ice build-up will burn-up the radon fan motor, shutting down the system causing serious health issues from radon exposure.

The diagnostic bypass filter housing10, contains a ice filter15, sized to firmly fit within the bulge area “B” to catch objects such as ice or debris and prevents them from entering the radon fan25. The gutter34, having a crescent shape with the outer edge matching the circular shape of the ice filter15, catches water and directs it out of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10through the drain spout32.

At present I contemplate the Ice filter15is manufactured of rigid stainless steel screen with 0.50″ openings and may be positioned above or below the gutter34, but other materials, sizes and positions are suitable. At present I contemplate the gutter34is crescent shaped, with a thickness of between 1/16″ to 5/16″, made of plastic, with shape and size to catch water and minimize air resistance, but other materials, shapes and sizes are suitable.

The drain spout32is hollow and aligned with the gutter34to receive water from the gutter34at the hollow drain opening32a, located at the lower center point of the gutter wall34band channel the water out of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10and away from the radon fan25. The water drain32has a hollow channel that is sized between 1/16″ and 1″ diameter.

InFIG. 10, the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is connected directly to the radon fan25with removable fastener25band removable coupling25c.

InFIG. 11, the diagnostic bypass filter housing10is connected directly to the radon fan25by non-removable connector46.

The observation windows11,12,13of diagnostic bypass filter housing10are made of transparent plastic with diameters ¼″ to 3″ and thickness 1/16″ to 5/16″ and are placed on all sides of bypass housing10, including into the closure cap11afor interior lighting and observation.

The access opening11bon the rear side of the bypass housing10provides an entry into the diagnostic bypass filter housing10for inspections, maintenance and testing. During normal radon fan25operations, the access opening11bis closed off with the closure cap11a. The access opening11bhas female threads and is sized from ¼″ to 3″ diameter.

The closure cap11asized from ¼″ to 3″ diameter with male threads to match the female threads of the access opening11bis made of plastic and includes a built-in bolt head suitable for wrenching on and off.

The bypass housing contains non-mechanical air flow indicators “R” to indicate air movement through the diagnostic bypass filter housing10to monitor the performance of the radon fan25. The indicators “R” may be ribbons attached to the ice filter15or other suitable locations within the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

Conditions can be monitored without entering the diagnostic bypass filter housing10by viewing through one of the observation windows11,12,13. More than one observation window allows sun light to enter the diagnostic bypass filter housing10from different sides, producing light for visual monitoring. Observation windows on all of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10sides permits the observer to monitor different side views of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10interior.

The mechanical air flow indicator “M”, being electrically or battery powered provides a more detailed and exact performance evaluation of air pressure, volume, velocity, consistency and reliability within the bypass diagnostic bypass filter housing10and the mitigation system.

The indicator “M” with probes and sensors located within the bypass diagnostic bypass filter housing10to collect air flow information and is connected to display screens or computers located outside the bypass housing10. Air movement monitoring equipment is known in the testing industry.

The transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10bcontains all of the embodiments of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10except the need for observation windows. The total transparency provided by the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10ballows internal monitoring without entering the transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10b. The transparent diagnostic bypass filter housing10bis made from transparent plastic that is suitable for exterior conditions, including damage from direct sunlight. The housing10bwall is 1/16″ to 5/16″ thick with the embodiments of the diagnostic bypass filter housing10.

The vent housing23, FIG.1,1A,1B,1C,1D, is hollow cylindrical shaped, open at the lower enter port23F to receive radon laced air from radon fan25. The housings23,23E are caped23G at the top of the vent and may be opaque or transparent to allow solar heat within the housing23,23E. The vent housing23is an opaque body and vent housing23E is a transparent body to allow additional solar heat within the transparent housing23E.

The 4″ diameter vent housings23,23E contains approximately 87 exhaust openings23C, which are sized at 4.25 inches horizontal by 5/16 inches vertical, resulting in 114 square inches of exhaust openings.

This 114 square inches of exhaust openings23C represents 900% more opening area then a typical 4″ diameter birds and animal screen70, which is typically located at the top of a 4″ radon exhaust pipe. The 4″ birds and animal screen70has approximately 12.56 square inches of exhaust area.

At present I contemplate3″ to 14″ diameter vents, but other diameters are suitable.

4″ Diameter Vent housing23,23E=114 square inches of exhaust opening area.

4″Diameter Birds and Animals Screen70=12.56 square inches of exhaust opening area.

At present I contemplate the vent housing wall23,23E and vent cap23G are manufactured from plastic formulas with wall23D thicknesses from 1/16″ to 5/16″, but other thicknesses are suitable.

The horizontal elongated exhaust openings23C are angled vertically at approximately 45 degrees, with the inside of the opening23C being higher than the outside of the opening23C within the wall23D to prevent rain water and unwanted objects from entering the vent housing23and23E. The exhaust openings23C with combined 114 square inches of open area reduces the risk of ice formation that can block air passage through the 12.56 square inch exhaust openings of the 4″ birds and animal screen70.

Additionally, because the exhaust openings23C are located on the vertical wall23D, there is less risk of falling snow or frozen rain blocking the openings23C as compared to the horizontal openings of the birds and animals screen70.

The metal wire used in the birds and animals screen70freezes-up faster than the plastic vent housing23due to the fact that metal conducts coldness faster than plastic and it has a smaller area for air passage.

InFIGS. 1C and 1D, the vent housing23and23E is connected directly to diagnostic bypass filter housing10by connector50to meet custom job site requirements.

InFIGS. 1 and 1A, the vent housing23and23A is connected indirectly by plumbing pipe21and elbow20to meet custom job site requirements.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS AND SCOPE

Thus the reader will see that at least one embodiment of the gaseous fluid mitigation system protection apparatus provides a greater level of damage protection and monitoring for a radon mitigation system and can be installed by those in the radon mitigation installation trade.

Although the description above contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments. For example, the Bulge can have other sizes and shapes such as circular, oval or eccentric.

Thus the scope of the embodiments should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given.