What steps can be taken to reduce radon levels in a home?


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What steps can be taken to reduce radon levels in a home?


From: Paddy Tennant - May 14, 2024

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas that can seep into homes and pose a serious health risk. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reduce radon levels in a home and protect yourself and your family from this invisible danger.


Test for Radon Levels

The first step in reducing radon levels in your home is to test for the presence of radon. Radon testing kits are readily available at hardware stores or online, and can provide you with an accurate measurement of radon levels in your home. It is recommended to test for radon at least every two years, or if you have made any structural changes to your home that could impact radon levels.


Seal Cracks and Openings

Radon enters homes through cracks and openings in the foundation and walls. By sealing these entry points, you can prevent radon from seeping into your home. This can be done using caulking or sealant to fill in gaps around pipes, wires, and other openings. Additionally, sealing sump pumps and drains can help reduce radon levels.


Ventilate the Home

Proper ventilation is key in reducing radon levels in a home. Opening windows and doors regularly to allow for fresh air circulation can help dilute radon gas and prevent it from accumulating indoors. Installing a ventilation system, such as a radon mitigation system with a fan, can further help to reduce radon levels by drawing the gas out of the home and venting it outside.


Install a Radon Mitigation System

If radon levels in your home are above the recommended action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), it is highly recommended to install a radon mitigation system. There are different types of radon mitigation systems available, but the most common method is called sub-slab depressurization. This system involves installing pipes and a fan beneath the foundation of the home to draw radon gas from the soil and vent it outside before it can enter the home.


Regular Maintenance and Monitoring

Once you have taken steps to reduce radon levels in your home, it is important to regularly monitor and maintain your radon mitigation system to ensure it is functioning properly. This may involve periodic testing for radon levels, checking for cracks and openings that need to be sealed, and replacing components of the mitigation system as needed.



By taking these steps to reduce radon levels in your home, you can protect yourself and your family from the health risks associated with this dangerous gas. It is important to act quickly and decisively if high radon levels are detected, as prolonged exposure to radon can have serious consequences. Remember, when it comes to radon, it's better to be safe than sorry.


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