Next to smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. If the radon levels in your home are higher than 4 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L), the EPA recommends fixing your home to prevent radon from entering and to remove existing radon. Radon remediation systems can provide ventilation strategies to keep your risk of exposure low.
The Basics
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is released when uranium in soil and rocks breaks down. It can enter your home through cracks in the foundation and other openings, and may also be present in well water and ground water systems. According to the EPA, effective radon remediation techniques can reduce the level of radon in most homes by up to 99 percent.
Remediation
As of 2010, the average cost of installing a radon remediation system in your home is $1,200. Different systems range between $800 and $2,500. The actual cost will vary depending on the size of your home, the way in which your home was constructed and the type of remediation system needed. Most radon treatment systems will also cause some loss of treated air, which could increase your heating or air conditioning bills.
Mitigation Contractors
The EPA recommends hiring a licensed radon mitigation specialist. Your state radon office can provide you with information on what types of certifications are required in your state, as well as a list of recommended contractors. Attempting to install radon remediation systems without the proper knowledge or equipment could result in an unwanted increase in radon levels or other hazards. When hiring a radon mitigation contractor, get more than one estimate, and ask if the contractor can provide test results for previous radon reduction work. Also ask if estimates include post-installation testing, the installation of a warning device in case radon levels increase and any guarantees of the work.
Remediation Methods
Some radon remediation methods prevent radon from entering your home; others work to reduce radon levels after it is already present in your home. The EPA recommends preventing the entry of radon into your home as much as possible. (Reference 2) Your contractor will perform a home inspection to determine what features are required for your remediation system, based on the construction of your home and the extent of the radon problem. The type of system used largely depends on whether your home has a basement or a crawl space, or uses slab-on-grade construction. Most radon reduction systems use vents and fans to draw the radon out of the ground beneath your home and release it to the outside air.
Maintenance
Like a furnace or air conditioner, radon reduction systems require occasional maintenance. Check your warning device regularly to make sure it is working properly. Fans typically last for five years or more and may eventually need to be replaced or repaired. The cost of replacing a fan is between $200 and $350 as of 2010. The EPA recommends retesting your home every two years to make sure your reduction system is keeping radon levels low.
