Get matched with top radon detection and reduction specialists in Santa Maria, CA

No level of radon is technically safe, but since it is naturally present everywhere, it is impossible to avoid entirely. The average radon level in homes across the United States is 1.3 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action to reduce radon levels if your home's test results are between 2 and 4 pCi/L or higher.

The lifespan of a radon mitigation system depends on the type of system and its maintenance. With proper care, a system can last for many decades. Passive systems tend to last longer as they have fewer components that require replacement. Active systems, which have more moving parts like fans, generally have a shorter lifespan. For instance, water filtration devices and active pressurization systems require more frequent maintenance. While the system as a whole is durable, the radon fan in an active system typically has a lifespan of 5 to 10 years and will need to be replaced. As long as the fan is working, the mitigation system should function correctly.

Radon is the number one non-smoking cause of lung cancer in the United States, but it can cause some other concerning side effects in the meantime. If you have a raspy voice, chest pains, trouble breathing, difficulty swallowing, or any of the above, don’t hesitate to perform radon testing and install a mitigation system as soon as possible.

You'll need to test your home for radon after installing the mitigation system, then again every two years. If radon remains elevated, contact a licensed radon professional, either the contractor who installed the system or a different one, and have them evaluate the system. They may need to make some changes to improve its effectiveness and performance.