When it comes to home safety, most people think of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, or even mold. But there’s another danger that’s just as real—yet completely invisible: radon. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is present in many homes across the United States, and it can pose serious health risks if left undetected.
In fact, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General, radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the country. For non-smokers, it’s the number one cause. Let’s explore what radon is, how it enters your home, why it’s dangerous, and how you can protect your family.
What is Radon?
Radon is a chemical element that forms from the natural radioactive decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and groundwater sources. As radioactive materials like uranium break down, radon breaks free and seeps up toward the surface. When this odorless gas escapes into the open air, it’s diluted and poses little risk. But when it enters an enclosed space—like a home—it can accumulate to high concentrations.
Radon gas is completely undetectable without testing. It has no smell, no color, and no taste. The only way to know if your home has a radon problem is through radon testing.
How Does Radon Enter a Home?
Radon typically enters through:
- Cracks in basement floors and walls
- Gaps around service pipes or drains
- Sump pits or crawl space access points
- Construction joints
- Well water from underground sources
- Certain building materials like granite or concrete (though less common)
Every type of home can be affected—new or old, with or without basements, slab or crawlspace foundations. Even new homes can have high indoor radon levels, especially in areas known for higher levels of radon in the soil.
Why is Radon So Dangerous?
The danger comes from the radioactive particles—also called alpha particles—that radon emits. When inhaled, these particles become trapped in the lungs and expose lung cells to radiation. Over time, this can damage lung tissue, increase the risk of lung cancer, and contribute to other health problems.
Radon exposure is especially dangerous when paired with cigarette smoking. According to the World Health Organization, smokers exposed to high levels of radon have a significantly greater risk of developing lung cancer.
Symptoms like shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and chest pain typically appear after long-term exposure—making prevention and testing crucial.
What Are Safe and Unsafe Levels of Radon in Homes?
Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). Here’s what the EPA and health experts recommend:
- 4.0 pCi/L or above: Considered the action level. Radon mitigation is highly recommended.
- 2.0–3.9 pCi/L: Consider long-term testing and mitigation options.
- Below 2.0 pCi/L: Generally considered acceptable levels for indoor exposure.
The average indoor radon level in U.S. homes is around 1.3 pCi/L, while the average radon level in outdoor air is about 0.4 pCi/L.
How to Test for Radon in Homes
The best way to determine your radon level is to perform a test. You can choose between:
Short-Term Test Kits
- Last from 2–7 days
- Available at hardware stores or online
- Provide a quick snapshot of indoor air quality
Long-Term Tests
- Measure indoor radon levels over 90 days or more
- Offer a more accurate reflection of your overall health risk
You can also hire professionals certified by the state radon office or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP).
Real estate transactions often include radon testing. If you’re buying or selling, it’s a good idea to include it in your inspection process.
What to Do If You Have High Radon Levels
If your home shows high levels of radon gas, don’t panic. Radon is fixable. The most effective solution is a radon mitigation system, which usually includes:
- A soil suction system installed beneath the foundation
- A fan that vents radon outdoors, preventing it from entering your home
- Sealing cracks or gaps to reduce entry points
This type of radon reduction system can lower radon concentrations by up to 99%. Typical installation costs range from $800 to $2,000—a small investment to protect your overall health and air quality.
For new builds, consider radon-resistant construction techniques from the start, especially in parts of the country with known higher radon levels.
Additional Resources and Safety Info
For trustworthy radon information, always refer to official government organizations and gov websites such as:
- EPA Radon Page: https://www.epa.gov/radon
- CDC Radon Info: https://www.cdc.gov/radon
- Your State Radon Office: EPA State Directory
When to Retest for Radon
You should retest your home:
- Every two years
- After any major renovations
- If switching from well water to public water
- If a radon mitigation system has been installed
- If the original test results were borderline (2.0–4.0 pCi/L)
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Home and Health
Radon is a health hazard you can’t afford to ignore—but fortunately, it’s one you can control. Testing your home and installing a radon mitigation system if needed is a simple step that can prevent serious long-term health effects.
If you’re buying a home, make sure radon testing is part of the process. If you’re already a homeowner, schedule a test, especially if you live in an area with known high radon levels or underground mines nearby.
As a real estate professional licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arizona, I make sure my clients are educated on all aspects of home safety—including radon.
Have questions about radon and real estate? I’d love to help.
Contact me today or browse homes in areas where air quality and safety come first.