Radon enters your home when warm air begins to rise and exits through the roof, creating a vacuum that pulls cooler air from under the foundation. Part of that air is radon, which is an invisible, odorless gas that develops naturally when radioactive particles are deep within the ground. Those particles usually come from decaying matter in soil and rocks.

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.

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.

Many radon fans carry a five-year manufacturer's warranty. That said, your radon fan should last between five and ten years. Regular inspections will ensure the fan is operating properly. Unusual or exceptional noise coming from the fan or indications on your manometer or system monitor can immediately tell you that something is amiss.