Understanding Safe Radon Levels for Your Denver Home
Regarding radon, a colorless and odorless gas that poses serious health risks, homeowners in the Denver Metro area must be vigilant. If you’ve recently had a radon mitigation system installed or are considering one, you’re likely wondering, “What should radon levels be after mitigation?”
This guide will help you understand the importance of radon mitigation, safe radon levels, and what to expect after your mitigation system is installed.
The Importance of Radon Mitigation
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and its presence in your home is something to take seriously. In Denver and the surrounding areas, radon levels can be higher due to the region's unique geology. Homes with basements are especially vulnerable, as radon often enters through cracks and openings in the foundation.
What Are Safe Radon Levels?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends action to reduce radon levels if they are at or above 4.0 pCi/L. However, even lower levels, between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, can pose some risk, so reducing radon as much as possible is always beneficial.
After mitigation, radon levels should be:
- Below 4.0 pCi/L: The goal of any radon mitigation system is to bring radon levels below this threshold. At this level, the EPA considers the risk of lung cancer significantly reduced.
- Ideally Below 2.0 pCi/L: While levels below 4.0 pCi/L are deemed acceptable, aiming for levels under 2.0 pCi/L offers even greater peace of mind. Many high-quality radon mitigation systems can achieve this lower level, providing extra assurance that your home is safe.
What to Expect After Radon Mitigation
Here’s what you should know:
- Initial Post-Installation Testing: Within 24 to 48 hours after installation, you should perform a radon test to check the system's effectiveness. This test will give you an initial reading of the radon levels in your home.
- Ongoing Monitoring: It’s recommended to test radon levels periodically, even after a successful mitigation. This ensures that the system continues to operate effectively and that radon levels remain low. Testing every two years or after significant changes to your home’s structure (like renovations) is a good practice.
- Understanding Variations in Levels: Radon levels can fluctuate slightly due to weather conditions or seasonal changes. However, these fluctuations should not cause average levels to exceed 4.0 pCi/L. If levels rise above this, it may indicate that the system needs maintenance, such as a radon fan replacement or additional sealing of cracks in your basement.
- Maintaining Your System: A radon mitigation system requires minimal maintenance, but it’s important to ensure that the radon fan is functioning properly and that there are no new cracks or gaps where radon can enter. If your radon levels creep up, a professional can inspect the system and make necessary adjustments.
The Benefits of a Properly Installed Radon Mitigation System
When a radon mitigation system is properly installed and maintained, it provides several key benefits:
- Health Protection: The most critical benefit is reducing lung cancer risk by maintaining safe radon levels in your home.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home’s radon levels are within a safe range allows you to enjoy your living space without concern.
- Energy Efficiency: By sealing cracks and gaps during the mitigation process, your home may also become more energy-efficient, reducing heating and cooling costs.
Trust Apex Radon for Your Radon Mitigation Needs
Ensuring your home has safe radon levels after mitigation is not just about peace of mind—it's about protecting your family's health. Apex Radon has been serving the Denver Metro area for over 10 years, providing expert radon mitigation services that have helped over 7,000 homeowners achieve safer living environments.
With a commitment to high-quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, Apex Radon offers free onsite quotes, price matching, and personal, responsive service.
As a highly certified, locally owned and operated business, Apex Radon has earned over 250 five-star reviews, reflecting their dedication to integrity, quality, and professionalism.
