The Benefits and Costs of a Radon Mitigation System
Radon reduction systems work. In most homes, use of radon-reducing features will keep radon levels to below 2 pCi/l. An effective radon mitigation system can reduce the radon level in your home by up to 99 percent.
Homeowners with radon systems have also experienced a reduction of other indoor air quality issues such as moisture and soil gas intrusion problems in their home. In an effort to produce scientific evidence of these observations, EPA has funded several radon system and moisture studies and research is still in the preliminary stages.
The cost of making repairs to reduce radon is influenced by the size and design of your home and other factors. Most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs, like painting or having a new hot water heater installed. The average cost for a certified or licensed mitigation contractor to lower radon levels in a slab or basement home is about $2,500, and a crawl space home is about $3,800 or more. Your costs may vary depending on the size and design of your home, which radon reduction methods are needed, and the distance to travel to the mitigation location.
Homeowners should consider correcting a radon problem before making final preparations to sell a home. This often provides more time to address the problem and find the most cost-effective solution. In addition, the current occupants - not just the buyer's occupants - will reap the benefit of reduced risk.
Radon mitigation systems need occasional maintenance. Check your warning device (all properly installed systems should have one) frequently to make sure the system is working correctly. Radon system fans may last for five years or more (manufacturer warranties usually do not exceed five years). You may need to repair or replace older fans.
