Table of Contents

How to Get Rid of Radon? A Comprehensive Guide

The most effective way to get rid of radon is to install a radon mitigation system. These systems actively vent radon gas from beneath your home to the outside, significantly reducing indoor radon levels and protecting your health.

Understanding the Radon Threat

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s a significant health hazard, being the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, surpassed only by smoking. Because you can’t see, smell, or taste it, testing is the only way to know if radon is present in your home. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels dramatically increases your risk of developing lung cancer.

Radon Testing: The First Crucial Step

Before attempting any mitigation, testing is paramount. The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon. Testing is inexpensive and relatively simple.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Testing

There are two main types of radon tests: short-term and long-term. Short-term tests are typically conducted over 2 to 7 days, while long-term tests are conducted for 90 days or more. Short-term tests provide a quick snapshot of radon levels, while long-term tests offer a more accurate average reading due to radon level fluctuations.

Interpreting Test Results

The EPA action level for radon is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If your test results are at or above this level, mitigation is recommended. Even levels below 4 pCi/L pose some risk, and many mitigation experts suggest considering action for levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

Radon Mitigation Techniques: Your Path to Safety

If your home tests high for radon, a radon mitigation system is the most reliable solution. While other methods like sealing cracks may offer some reduction, they are generally not sufficient for homes with elevated levels.

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD) is the most common and effective radon mitigation technique. It involves creating a vacuum beneath the concrete slab foundation of your home to draw radon gas out and vent it safely above the roofline.

How it works: A hole is drilled through the concrete slab, and a PVC pipe is inserted. A fan connected to the pipe creates suction, pulling radon gas from the soil beneath the slab. This gas is then vented outside through the pipe, far away from windows and doors.

Other Mitigation Methods

While SSD is the most prevalent, other methods exist for specific situations:

Sub-Membrane Depressurization: Used for homes with crawl spaces, this involves sealing the crawl space with a plastic membrane and creating a vacuum beneath the membrane to vent the radon gas.
Block Wall Depressurization: Used for homes with hollow block walls, this involves sealing the top of the block wall and creating a vacuum inside to vent the radon gas.
Radon Sump Systems: Used in homes with existing sump pumps, this involves modifying the sump pump system to vent radon gas along with water.
Sealing Cracks and Openings: While not a standalone solution, sealing cracks and openings in the foundation can help reduce radon entry. This should be done in conjunction with a depressurization system.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

While DIY radon mitigation kits are available, professional installation is highly recommended. Certified radon mitigation professionals have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to properly assess your home, design an effective system, and ensure it is installed correctly. A poorly installed system may not adequately reduce radon levels and could even create other problems.

Maintaining Your Mitigation System

Once installed, your radon mitigation system requires minimal maintenance.

Fan Check: Regularly check the fan to ensure it is operating properly. Most systems include a manometer (U-tube) that indicates fan operation.
Re-testing: Re-test your home periodically (every two years is recommended) to ensure the system is still effectively reducing radon levels.

FAQs: Your Burning Radon Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about radon and its mitigation:

FAQ 1: How do I test my home for radon?

You can purchase a DIY radon test kit at most hardware stores or online. Alternatively, you can hire a certified radon tester to conduct the test for you. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

FAQ 2: How much does radon mitigation cost?

The cost of radon mitigation varies depending on the size and construction of your home, as well as the specific mitigation method required. On average, expect to pay between $800 and $2500 for a professionally installed system.

FAQ 3: Will radon mitigation reduce my property value?

On the contrary, radon mitigation can increase your property value by making your home safer and more appealing to potential buyers. A home with a radon mitigation system is often seen as a desirable feature.

FAQ 4: Does sealing cracks in my foundation get rid of radon?

Sealing cracks can help reduce radon entry, but it is rarely sufficient as a standalone solution for homes with elevated radon levels. It is best used in conjunction with a depressurization system.

FAQ 5: How long does radon mitigation take to install?

A typical radon mitigation system installation takes one to two days to complete.

FAQ 6: What is a radon mitigation fan and how long does it last?

A radon mitigation fan is a specialized fan designed to continuously pull radon gas from beneath your home. They typically last 5 to 10 years, depending on the model and operating conditions.

FAQ 7: Can I get financial assistance for radon mitigation?

Some states and local governments offer financial assistance programs for radon mitigation, particularly for low-income homeowners. Check with your local health department or EPA regional office for information on available programs.

FAQ 8: What happens if I don’t mitigate radon?

If you don’t mitigate radon, you will continue to be exposed to elevated levels of the gas, increasing your risk of developing lung cancer. The longer you are exposed, the greater the risk.

FAQ 9: Are new homes required to be radon resistant?

Some states and municipalities require new homes to be built with radon-resistant construction techniques. Check with your local building codes to see if this applies in your area.

FAQ 10: Can I mitigate radon myself?

While DIY kits are available, professional installation is strongly recommended for optimal effectiveness and safety. A certified professional can properly assess your home and ensure the system is installed correctly.

FAQ 11: How can I find a qualified radon mitigation professional?

Look for a mitigation professional who is certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). These certifications ensure that the professional has met specific training and competency requirements.

FAQ 12: Does radon only affect basements?

While radon is often more concentrated in basements due to their proximity to the ground, it can affect all levels of a home. Radon can enter through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, and other openings, regardless of the floor level. Testing should be conducted on the lowest lived-in level of the house.