It is important to test your home for radon and install a mitigation system if the radon levels exceed the maximum acceptable limit of 4.0 pCi/L. But how much does a radon mitigation system cost?
The average cost of a radon mitigation system is $1200. Depending on your geographical location and radon level in your house, the cost can vary from $800 to $2000. The cost also depends on the size of the house, its design, and the type of radon mitigation system you select.
The costs given above are just a guideline. The actual costs vary with contractors, brands of equipment and parts, and geographical locations. In addition to this, there is the aesthetic cost, the cost to hide the mitigation system from plain view to keep up the house’s aesthetics. With many such factors in play, how do you understand the mandatory elements that add up to the total cost, and what is the final ascertained cost?
Table of Contents
What Contributes to the cost of a radon mitigation system?
While testing for Radon gas is synonymous with the overall process, there is an obvious difference between a Radon test procedure and a Radon mitigation system. Radon gas testing will be the first step in the procedure to determine the actual concentration of Radon gas in the areas to be tested, and the costing for this is between an average range of $135-$350. With a confirmed higher than the recommended level, a Radon mitigation system will have to be set in place. Some of the common Radon mitigation systems that cost differently from their use of equipment, labor, support elements, and operational costs are,
- Active Soil Depressurization
- Sub Membrane Depressurization
- Passive Mitigation systems
- Sump Pit Mitigation systems
- Natural ventilation systems
- Sealing
By the geographical location, the difference in Radon mitigation systems can be illustrated with examples of Colorado, Ohio, and Portland, having an average cost range between $800-$1200, $600-$1200, and $1000-$1300, respectively. In addition to the Mitigation system, costs of installation and year-round operation (electricity charges, convective energy losses, etc.) are to be factored in. While an average range gives an understanding of the limits and a comparative benchmark point, experts in the field especially pinpoint a note to remember. With negligible to no standard requirement set for technical personnel to handle installations of Radon mitigation systems in many states, it is crucial to avoid hiring services solely based on the lowest quote given, especially if there is a drastic cost difference between the lowest quote and the next. It is most probable for costing to have marginal differences and, in most cases, within $100.
What is the lifespan of a Radon mitigation system?
The shelf-life period of a Radon mitigation system depends on the elements that are present for the specific system installed. In active systems that include duct piping and exhaust fans, the average lifespan can be chalked up to an average of 20 years and 5 years, respectively. However, with the necessary care and attention to quality products, installation procedure, servicing, and maintenance can generally give up to a lifespan of about 20 years. It is also important to note that a few outside factors like attic temperature and pressure can influence how long an installed system can last.
How long will it take to install a radon mitigation system
Companies and contractors with expertise in Radon mitigation processes have ample knowledge and experience with system installation in the residential sector. The average time that a Radon mitigation system takes to get installed in a house is rounded up to around 3-5 hours, depending on the layout of the building and the intensity of the process. Although there are vastly different ways for a Radon mitigation system to be installed, factors such as crawl spaces, suction points, fan systems, and sump systems have to be considered for an exact estimate of the time taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Radon Mitigation Systems Need Servicing and Maintenance?
The general recommendation is to have a Radon mitigation expert check the working of the installed system annually, as this step makes sure that the installation is effective in its function and gives the users peace of mind. As per EPA’s guidelines, the installed Radon mitigation system must come with a warning device that alerts the user in case of malfunction. Some experts in the field also recommend checking the house for Radon every once in 2-3 years. With an otherwise hassle-free maintenance procedure and servicing by technical personnel, simple measures such as being alert to the system will be sufficient.
Is It Possible to Install a Radon Mitigation System without Any Expertise?
While it is generally advisable to seek a professional to install a radon mitigation system, house occupants can still take up the process. However, it is nothing less than tricky. The general caution is that the process is serious and should be handled with utmost care. Before starting with the process, necessary research can be taken up from available resources, supplemented with precaution.
Is It Better to Buy a House with a Radon Mitigation System Installed?
Depending on the location of the new property, the history of radon levels can be checked with the use of EPA’s radon map. With an instance of high radon levels, it is advisable to carry out a Radon gas test, especially if there is no Radon mitigation system already installed. On the contrary, it is good practice to buy a house with a pre-installed Radon mitigation system.
Does a Radon Mitigation System Provide Any Other Health Benefit?
In addition to the reduction in radon concentration levels, most users report an overall improved indoor air quality with lessened moisture and soil gas intrusion issues. An installed Radon mitigation system dries out the moisture in the air by a margin-lower concentration of humidity provides fresher air and cutting down musty smells. Along with this, undeniable environmental impacts are also present. Lesser humidity cuts down the use of a dehumidifier and the HVAC systems, thereby scaling down the electricity bill.
Is it Necessary to Repeat a Test After the Installation of a Radon Mitigation System?
Expert companies and contractors advise doing a retest within 30 days of installation. Though the installation personnel can perform the retest, the EPA recommends a 3rd party technician test for radon gas after installation.
