Learn More About Radon
What is Radon?
Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas. The U.S. Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, next to smoking. Radon is estimated to cause 20,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.
Radon Levels Are High In 1out of 3 of Utah Homes
Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. Radon can get into any type of building – homes, offices, and schools. You and your family are most likely to get your greatest exposure at home, where you spend most of your time.
Learn more at radon.utah.gov
How Does Radon Get Into My Home?
Because radon is a gas, it can get in where solids can’t. Common problems allowing radon to enter homes include:
- Cracks in solid floors
- Construction joints
- Cracks in walls
- Gaps in suspended floors
- Gaps around service pipes
- Cavities inside walls
- Water supply
Does My Home Have High Levels of Radon?
You can’t smell, taste, or see radon. The only way to know if you have high levels of radon in your home is to test for it. To order a radon test kit or to find a list of Utah Certified Measurement or Mitigation Providers, go to: radon.utah.gov
What Do These Test Readings Mean?
The average outdoor level is 0.4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), while the average indoor level is 1.3 pCi/L. The average Utah home has 5.3 pCi/L. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) action level is 4.0 pCi/L. Fix your home if the levels are above the 4.0 action level.
I Have High Radon Levels; Now What?
First, RELAX! Radon levels can be fixed inside every home. You can order an easy to use radon test kit at radon.utah.gov for $8.00 or buy one from a local hardware store. Testing is simple and effective for determining if your house has elevated radon levels.
How Does a Mitigation System Work?
A hole is bored in the basement concrete slab and a suction pump exhausts the gases to the outside.
How Much Does Mitigation Cost?
Radon mitigation systems can be installed to lower your radon level for about the same cost as other common home repairs – usually about $1,500.
What Does a Mitigation System Do?
In addition to venting radon, the mitigation system reduces asthma triggers, air particles, volatile organic compounds, and mold. Improving the indoor air quality in your home and creating a value added addition increases your home value.
*Information provided by Eleanor Divver, Utah Radon Program Coordinator.