One of the most common questions homeowners ask after receiving a radon test result is whether they should install a mitigation system. The answer depends on the measured radon concentration and your long-term plans for the property.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that homeowners take action to reduce indoor radon levels when the average concentration is 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. However, because there is no known safe level of radon exposure, some homeowners choose to install a mitigation system even when radon levels are below the EPA action level.
What Is a Radon Mitigation System?
A radon mitigation system is designed to reduce the amount of radon gas entering a building from the soil beneath the foundation.
The most common system, known as Active Soil Depressurization (ASD), creates a slight vacuum beneath the slab or foundation using PVC piping and an in-line fan. The system safely collects radon gas before it enters the building and vents it above the roofline, where it disperses harmlessly into the atmosphere.
Properly designed mitigation systems can often reduce indoor radon levels by 90% or more, depending on the construction of the building and the source of the radon.
When Should You Consider Installing a Mitigation System?
A radon mitigation system is generally recommended when:
- A radon test result is 4.0 pCi/L or higher.
- A real estate transaction identifies elevated radon levels.
- Long-term testing confirms elevated average concentrations.
- The home has a finished basement or frequently occupied lower level with elevated radon levels.
- Occupants want to further reduce radon exposure, even below the EPA action level.
Every home is different, and mitigation decisions should be based on reliable testing and the building's specific conditions.
Can a Home With Low Radon Become High Later?
Yes. Radon levels are not constant and may fluctuate due to:
- Seasonal weather changes
- Soil moisture
- Barometric pressure
- HVAC operation
- Foundation settling
- Renovations or additions
- Changes to ventilation
If major renovations are completed — particularly those affecting the basement, crawlspace, or foundation — it is a good idea to retest the property.
What Does a Radon Mitigation System Look Like?
A typical system may include:
- PVC vent piping
- Suction point beneath the foundation
- In-line radon fan
- System monitoring gauge
- Roof-level discharge point
- Sealing of accessible foundation openings where appropriate
Every system is custom designed for the individual building based on its construction and foundation type.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most residential radon mitigation systems can be installed in one day, although more complex homes may require additional time. After installation, a follow-up radon test should be performed to verify that the system has successfully reduced indoor radon levels.
Does a Mitigation System Require Maintenance?
Yes, although maintenance requirements are generally minimal. Property owners should:
- Periodically check the system's monitoring device (if installed).
- Listen for unusual fan noise.
- Ensure vent piping remains unobstructed.
- Retest the home every few years or after major renovations.
- Replace the radon fan if it reaches the end of its service life.
A properly maintained system can continue protecting the home for many years.
Will a Mitigation System Lower My Home's Value?
Quite the opposite.
Many homebuyers view a professionally installed radon mitigation system as a positive feature because it demonstrates that the home has been tested and that elevated radon levels have already been addressed. During real estate transactions, having an existing mitigation system can simplify negotiations if radon concerns arise.
Why Test Before Installing?
Installing a radon mitigation system without first testing the home is generally not recommended. Professional testing:
- Determines whether elevated radon levels are present.
- Establishes a baseline measurement.
- Helps determine whether mitigation is appropriate.
- Provides documentation for future property transactions.
- Allows the effectiveness of the mitigation system to be verified after installation.
Testing first helps ensure that mitigation decisions are based on actual measurements rather than assumptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Should I install a mitigation system if my radon level is below 4.0 pCi/L?
- The EPA recommends mitigation at 4.0 pCi/L or higher, but some homeowners choose to reduce lower levels because no amount of radon exposure is considered completely risk-free. The decision is ultimately a personal one based on your comfort level, long-term occupancy, and discussions with a qualified radon professional.
- Does every home need a mitigation system?
- No. Every home should be tested, but only homes with elevated radon levels typically require mitigation.
- Can I install a mitigation system myself?
- While do-it-yourself systems are available, proper design, fan sizing, suction point placement, and post-installation testing are important to ensure the system effectively reduces radon levels. Professional installation generally provides greater confidence that the system is operating as intended.
- Will opening my windows solve the problem?
- Opening windows may temporarily lower indoor radon levels while they remain open, but it is not a permanent solution. Once the windows are closed, radon levels often return to previous concentrations. A properly designed mitigation system provides a long-term method of reducing indoor radon levels.
How Axis Remedial Sciences Can Help
Axis Remedial Sciences provides professional radon testing, radon mitigation consulting, indoor air quality assessments, and environmental consulting for residential, commercial, educational, healthcare, and government facilities.
- Radon Testing
- Radon Mitigation Consulting
- Post-Mitigation Verification Testing
- Long-Term Radon Monitoring
- Indoor Air Quality Assessments
Contact Axis Remedial Sciences today to schedule a professional radon test or discuss whether a radon mitigation system may be appropriate for your home or building.
Serving Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.