Radon Mitigation System: Effectiveness Above 12 pCi/L

When your radon test comes back with levels above 12 pCi/L, one of the most common questions homeowners have is whether a mitigation system will be effective in reducing radon to a safe level. This article explores the effectiveness of mitigation systems and provides guidance on what to expect when installing such a system.

Understanding Radon Levels and Mitigation Costs

Radon, an inert, colorless, odorless, and naturally occurring radioactive gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In the US, radon concentration is typically measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L), while in most of the world, it is measured in becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m3).

Based on the EPA's guidelines, a safe level of radon is below 4 pCi/L. If your radon test is 12 pCi/L, that is 3 times the EPA-recommended safe limit of 4 pCi/L. The good news is that with a properly installed mitigation system, your radon levels can be significantly reduced.

While the cost of a mitigation system can vary based on the construction of your home, on average, it can be installed for less than $2000. Given that the cost of mitigation is significantly lower than the cost of moving, it is often a more practical and cost-effective solution to lower radon levels.

Evaluation of Mitigation Systems

There are different types of mitigation systems that can be effective in reducing radon levels. The choice of the system depends on the construction of your home:

Crawl Space: If your home has a crawlspace, an effective mitigation system can be installed by laying down an impermeable membrane plastic sheet and installing a suction fan to pull the radon-laden air out from under the membrane and eject it outdoors. This method is highly effective. Concrete Slab: For homes with concrete slabs, mitigation becomes more challenging because the air under the slab is difficult to pull out effectively. However, specialized ventilation systems can still be installed to reduce radon levels. These systems often involve drilling holes under the slab and installing a modest suction system to draw air from underneath to the outside.

Professional Installation and Recommendations

Testing for radon should ideally be done by a company that is not related to the mitigation company to ensure unbiased results. The National Environmental Services Center (NESC) and the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technicians (AARST) are reputable resources to find qualified professionals for radon testing and mitigation.

According to the EPA, even with a concrete slab floor, a proper mitigation system can drop radon levels significantly. For example, in my home, the initial radon levels were 24 pCi/L. After installing the appropriate sealing and drilling, as well as a modest suction system, the levels dropped to less than 1 pCi/L, despite the concrete slab floor.

Finding Reliable Mitigation Installers

The EPA provides resources for finding local radon zones and state contact information. They also recommend reputable radon mitigation service providers. This information is essential for homeowners looking to address high radon levels in their homes.

For more detailed guidance and resources, you can visit the EPA website for more information and contact details.

Remember that while radon levels above 12 pCi/L are concerning, they are often manageable with a properly installed mitigation system. Taking this step can significantly reduce the risk of health issues caused by long-term exposure to high radon levels.