If you’ve recently had a radon mitigation system installed, congratulations—you’ve taken a huge step toward protecting your home and your family’s health. But once the system is in place, many homeowners are left wondering: what happens next?
Does the problem go away immediately? Do you need to test again? And how do you make sure the system keeps working in the future?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what to expect after installation, how to verify your system’s effectiveness, and what maintenance steps will keep your indoor air safe for years to come.
Understanding What Radon Mitigation Does
A radon mitigation system is designed to reduce radon levels inside your home by venting the radioactive gas from beneath your foundation to the air outside, where it quickly disperses.
The most common type of system, known as sub-slab depressurization, uses:
- A vent pipe to pull radon from the soil below your home.
- A specialized fan that pushes the gas safely above your roofline.
- Once installed correctly, the system can lower radon concentrations by up to 99%—but it’s important to verify that it’s actually doing its job.
1. Post-Installation Testing Is Essential
The first and most important step after installation is to retest your home’s radon levels.
Even though mitigation systems are highly effective, no installation is complete until testing confirms success.
Here’s what to do:
- Wait at least 24 hours after installation to allow the system to stabilize.
- Conduct a short-term radon test (2–7 days) in the lowest livable area of your home.
- Ideally, follow up with a long-term test (90+ days) to get a more accurate average.
- According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), your radon levels should drop below 4.0 pCi/L, and ideally closer to 2.0 pCi/L or less.
If post-mitigation testing shows levels above that, contact your radon professional immediately for adjustments or system upgrades.
2. You’ll Notice a Few Subtle Changes Around Your Home
Radon systems are designed to be quiet and discreet—but you might notice a few differences after installation:
- A steady hum or soft whirring sound near the mitigation fan (usually located in an attic, garage, or outside wall).
- A PVC vent pipe running from your basement or crawl space through the roofline.
- A U-tube manometer or gauge mounted on the pipe, which helps you monitor fan pressure and system performance.
These are all signs that your mitigation system is actively working to keep radon out of your home.
3. The Air Quality in Your Home Begins to Improve
Once your system is up and running, it starts to draw radon gas from beneath your foundation—reducing the amount that can seep indoors.
You might not feel an immediate difference (radon has no smell or taste), but what’s happening behind the scenes is crucial:
- Less radioactive gas circulating through your home.
- Cleaner, healthier indoor air over time.
- A significant reduction in long-term health risks, especially for lung-related conditions.
Some homeowners even report less basement dampness and better air circulation, as many systems also help with overall ventilation.
4. You’ll Need to Monitor the System Regularly
While radon mitigation systems are low-maintenance, they’re not set-and-forget devices. To ensure long-term safety, you’ll want to check a few things regularly:
- Check the Fan Operation
- The fan should run continuously, 24/7.
- If you can’t hear it or feel air movement at the vent outlet, contact your installer immediately.
- Watch the U-Tube Manometer
- The U-shaped gauge indicates air pressure in the system.
- The fluid levels should be uneven (one side higher than the other) when the fan is running.
- If both sides are level, the fan may not be working properly.
- Inspect for Damage or Blockage
- Make sure the vent pipe is intact, especially after storms or roof repairs.
- Keep the discharge point clear of debris, snow, or nesting animals.
5. Schedule Professional Follow-Up Testing
To maintain compliance with EPA recommendations, retest your home every two years, or sooner if:
- You make structural changes (like remodeling or adding rooms).
- You notice changes in your foundation or ventilation.
- Your system’s fan stops working or seems weaker.
Professional testers can provide detailed reports to ensure your home continues to meet safety standards.
It’s also smart to retest after any major earthquake or flood, since these events can alter soil pressure and gas movement.
6. Expect Lower Radon Levels—But Stay Vigilant
After mitigation, most homeowners see dramatic improvements. On average, radon levels drop to below 2.0 pCi/L, making the home significantly safer.
However, it’s important to remember:
- Radon can fluctuate seasonally, often higher in winter when windows are closed.
- Changes in soil moisture or foundation settling can affect how well your system performs.
That’s why regular testing and monitoring remain key—even the best systems require ongoing awareness.
7. Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting System
A well-installed radon mitigation system can last 15–20 years, especially if properly maintained.
Here are a few ways to keep it running efficiently:
- Clean the fan housing and vent pipe annually to prevent dust buildup.
- Replace or service the fan if it becomes noisy or stops working (usually after 8–10 years).
- Seal new foundation cracks as they appear to prevent radon seepage.
- Check your home’s humidity—a dehumidifier can help improve system efficiency in basements.
Keep a record of all radon test results and service reports for reference or future home buyers.
8. Keep an Eye on Energy and Airflow
While most systems have minimal energy impact, they do slightly alter how air moves through your home.
You may notice:
- Slightly cooler air near the basement floors.
- Improved air exchange, reducing musty odors.
- Minor electricity usage from the radon fan (typically under $5–$10/month).
If your energy bills spike unexpectedly, have your installer check for leaks or improper ventilation.
9. Peace of Mind—and Better Property Value
Beyond safety, there’s another major perk: a properly mitigated home can increase in value.
Buyers today are far more aware of radon risks. Showing that your home has a certified, functioning mitigation system not only protects health but also adds confidence during resale.
In fact, homes with low radon levels and installed systems often sell faster because buyers appreciate the proactive investment in safety.
10. What If Your Radon Levels Don’t Drop Enough?
In rare cases, radon levels may remain high even after installation. This doesn’t mean the system failed—it simply means further adjustments are needed.
Your mitigation contractor can:
- Add additional suction points beneath the slab.
- Upgrade to a more powerful fan.
- Install crawl space liners or sealing membranes for better containment.
With proper troubleshooting, nearly every home can achieve safe radon levels below the EPA threshold.
Conclusion: Living Safely After Radon Mitigation
Once your radon mitigation system is installed, you can finally breathe easier—literally. Your home’s air becomes cleaner, your risk of lung cancer drops dramatically, and your family can enjoy a healthier environment.
However, the job doesn’t end at installation. Regular testing, fan checks, and system maintenance are essential to ensure your protection lasts for decades. Partnering with experts like https://www.radonfortcollins.com/
can help you keep your system performing efficiently year after year.
So, what happens after radon mitigation is installed? You gain peace of mind, better health, and long-term safety—as long as you stay proactive.
Because when it comes to radon, vigilance is the true key to prevention.
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