Radon Mitigation FAQ
What radon level requires mitigation?
The EPA's action level is 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). At or above that, mitigation is recommended. Between 2 and 4 pCi/L, the EPA says it's still worth considering, especially for a long-term result. There's no radon level the EPA calls fully risk-free, since it's a linear no-threshold health risk, but 4 pCi/L is the standard trigger point.
Is it legal for anyone to install a radon mitigation system in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania requires anyone performing radon mitigation for compensation to hold an active PA DEP radon certification, a requirement in place since 1988 under the state's Radon Certification Act. The only exception is fixing radon in a home you personally own and occupy. Always verify a contractor's certification in the state's public database before hiring.
How long does installation take?
A standard active soil depressurization system on a typical single-family home is usually installed in a single day, roughly four to eight hours depending on foundation complexity and whether multiple suction points are needed for a larger or divided foundation.
Will a mitigation system run all the time?
Yes. The fan that powers an active system runs continuously, similar to a furnace blower, and draws relatively little electricity. It's designed to keep running year-round, not just when radon levels spike.
Do I need to test again after a system is installed?
Yes. Post-mitigation testing confirms the level actually dropped below the action threshold. This is a standard, expected part of the process, not an optional extra.
Does a new home need radon mitigation?
New construction can include passive radon-resistant features (a vent stack and sealed sub-slab membrane) at build time, which is cheaper than adding a system afterward but still needs a fan added if a post-construction test comes back elevated. New doesn't mean immune, since radon comes from the ground under the house, not the age of the structure.
Can I test for radon myself before calling anyone?
Yes. Short-term DIY test kits are widely available and a reasonable first step. If a DIY result comes back elevated, a longer-term test or a professional test is the usual next step before committing to a system, since radon levels can fluctuate with season and weather.
Why does York County specifically have elevated radon risk?
Radon originates from uranium naturally present in soil and bedrock, and the amount varies by region's underlying geology. York County, along with most of Pennsylvania, is mapped by the EPA in Zone 1, its highest-risk category, based on aggregated indoor test data across the state.
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