Fixing a radon problem
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps from soil into homes, and the EPA attributes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths a year to it — the leading cause among nonsmokers. You cannot see or smell it; the only way to know your level is a test. The good news: elevated radon is very fixable. A standard mitigation system (active soil depressurization) uses a sealed suction point and an inline fan to vent sub-slab gas above the roofline, and a properly installed system typically cuts levels dramatically, often below 2 pCi/L.
This directory lists radon professionals by state. Look for NRPP or NRSB certification — many states also license mitigators separately — and expect a quote to specify the suction point location, fan model, monitoring manometer, and a post-install retest. Most single-family installs run $800–$2,500 depending on foundation type; crawlspaces and additions add complexity.
What radon level requires mitigation?
The EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L — fix at or above it, and consider fixing between 2 and 4. Levels vary seasonally, so a long-term or repeat test is worth doing before and after any work.
How much does a radon system cost?
Most homes land between $800 and $2,500 installed. Price moves with foundation type (slab, basement, crawlspace), the number of suction points needed, and fan size. The retest afterward should be part of the job.
Does a radon system need maintenance?
Very little. Glance at the u-tube manometer occasionally to confirm the fan is pulling, and expect the fan itself to last 5–15 years. Retest every two years or after any major foundation or HVAC change.