If your home has elevated radon levels, a radon mitigation system is the most reliable solution. These systems are proven, durable, and can dramatically reduce indoor radon concentrations. Here's a comprehensive look at how they work and what to expect.
The Most Common System: Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)
Sub-slab depressurization is the most widely used and effective radon mitigation method for homes with basements or slab-on-grade foundations. It works by:
- Drilling one or more holes through the concrete foundation slab.
- Inserting a PVC pipe into the hole, extending from beneath the slab to above the roofline.
- Attaching a continuously running fan to the pipe.
- The fan creates negative pressure beneath the slab, drawing radon gas out before it can enter the home and venting it safely outside.
SSD systems can reduce radon levels by up to 99% and typically run 24/7 with very low energy consumption.
Other Mitigation Methods
- Drain tile suction — Uses existing drain tile systems around the foundation to collect and vent radon.
- Sump hole suction — Converts an existing sump pit into a radon collection point.
- Block wall suction — Used in homes with hollow concrete block foundations to depressurize the wall cavities.
- Crawl space ventilation — For homes with crawl spaces, adding vents or a powered ventilation system can significantly reduce radon.
- Natural ventilation — Opening windows and vents can temporarily dilute radon but is not a permanent solution.
What to Expect From Installation
- Installation typically takes one day by a certified contractor.
- Cost ranges from $800 to $2,500 depending on home size and system complexity.
- The system runs continuously and requires minimal maintenance.
- A warning device (manometer) is usually installed to alert you if the fan stops working.
Choosing a Qualified Contractor
Always hire a contractor who is certified by your state radon program or a nationally recognized organization such as NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program) or NRSB (National Radon Safety Board). Ask for references and a written contract that includes post-mitigation testing.
Post-Mitigation Testing
After installation, retest your home to confirm the system is working. The EPA recommends retesting within 24 hours to 30 days after mitigation. Continue monitoring with a continuous radon detector to ensure levels remain low year-round.
Verify Your Mitigation Is Working
The GZAIR Radon Detector is the perfect tool for post-mitigation monitoring — giving you continuous confirmation that your system is keeping radon levels safely low.
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