How to Fix a Radon Problem/Radon Mitigation

When to Take Action

To help you protect your health and the health of your family, you should take action to fix your home if the result of one long-term test or the average of two short-term tests are 4 pCi/l or higher, and not on a single short-term screening test only. The higher the radon level in your home, the faster you should take action to reduce your exposure. The EPA believes that you should try to reduce your radon levels as much as possible. Most homes can be reduced to 4.0 pCi/l or lower.

If your home has a radon problem, it can be fixed by installing a radon mitigation system in the home. EPA and NREP recommend that you get a certified or licensed radon mitigation contractor to install the system.

What Can You Do to Lower Risk?

If you have to wait a while before you can reduce your radon problem, the EPA recommends these immediate steps to reduce risk:

• Stop smoking and discourage smoking in your home. This reduces the overall risk of lung cancer.
• Spend less time in areas where radon may be concentrated, such as the basement (lowest living area of the home).
• Open windows and turn on fans to increase airflow. Good ventilation helps radon disperse naturally.
• If your home has a crawl space, make sure the vents are fully open all year long. However, in some climates, this may result in energy loss or frozen pipes.
• Remember: These steps are not a substitute for mitigation. If your home needs mitigation, these steps will help until you can have it done.

Radon Mitigation

1. Certified Radon Mitigation Contractors Publication
2. What is a Radon Mitigation System?
3. The Benefits of a Radon Mitigation System
4. How to Know if a Radon Mitigation Contractor Did a Good Job