The cost for a radon mitigation system typically ranges from $800 to $1,500, with an average around $1,000. The final price depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the severity of the radon issue, and the type of system required. Your home's foundation type also significantly impacts the cost. For example, sealing and ventilating an unfinished basement might cost around $4,600, while encapsulating a crawl space without a foundation slab can range from $1,500 to $15,000.

Your radon fan needs to operate 24/7 to be effective. The only time the fan isn't operating is during its replacement. Radon levels in the home can increase within hours if the fan stops working or something obstructs the stack vent. Fortunately, radon systems require no downtime maintenance between fan changes.

The natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water can cause radon to appear in a home. The gas seeps into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, or floors, as well as through gaps around pipes or construction joints. Radon levels are influenced by soil composition, building materials, and ventilation. Poorly sealed or airtight homes can trap radon, allowing it to accumulate.

Keeping radon from getting into your home is much better than having to get rid of it once it's already indoors. While there may not be a way to fully prevent radon from getting into your home, there are things you can do to reduce the gas's ability to enter. 

Sealing foundation cracks and openings can help keep the gas from seeping inside. Improving air flow, such as by opening windows, can also be helpful. If you're building your home from scratch, talk to your contractor about using radon-resistant construction to keep the gas out.