When it comes to keeping your home safe, you probably think about locks, smoke detectors, and maybe even security cameras. But there’s a serious threat you can’t see, smell, or hear—and it could be hiding in the air you breathe every day: radon gas.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and it’s a risk in homes and businesses of all ages, sizes, and locations. The good news? Radon mitigation is a simple, affordable solution that can drastically reduce your exposure and protect your family’s health.
Here are the top 5 things every homeowner should know about the importance of radon mitigation:
1. Radon Is a Real—and Serious—Health Risk
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the soil beneath your home. When inhaled over time, radon’s radioactive particles can damage your lung tissue, significantly increasing the risk of lung cancer—even in non-smokers.
Fact: Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. The EPA estimates that radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. every year.
Mitigation isn’t just a precaution—it’s a vital step for protecting your long-term health.
2. Testing Is the Only Way to Know If You Have a Problem
Radon has no smell, taste, or color, making it completely undetectable without a test.
Even if your home is new, energy-efficient, or located in an area considered “low-risk,” radon could still be present at dangerous levels.
- The EPA recommends action if levels are 4.0 pCi/L or higher.
- Many homeowners choose to mitigate even at lower levels for extra safety.
Testing is easy, affordable, and typically takes just a few days—but it’s the critical first step to peace of mind. SWAT Environmental can assist you in testing your home or business for radon.
3. Radon Levels Can Change Over Time
You might think, “I tested when I bought the house—I’m good!” Not necessarily.
Radon levels can fluctuate due to changes in:
- Soil conditions
- Foundation shifts
- HVAC upgrades
- Seasonal weather patterns (especially in winter and rainy seasons)
- Home renovations
The EPA recommends testing your home for radon at least once every two years, or after any major renovation, to ensure your home stays safe over time.
4. Mitigation Systems Are Highly Effective and Affordable
If high radon levels are detected, don’t panic—mitigation systems are a reliable solution. A professionally installed radon mitigation system can reduce radon levels by up to 99%, providing long-term protection.
- Most systems cost between less than $2,000.
- Installation usually takes one day or less.
- Systems are quiet, energy-efficient, and require minimal maintenance.
Investing in radon mitigation is not just an investment in your home—it’s an investment in your health.
5. Radon Mitigation Adds Value to Your Home
Today’s buyers are more health-conscious than ever.
Having a tested home with a professionally installed mitigation system can:
- Increase your home’s marketability
- Prevent last-minute surprises during the selling process
- Provide a competitive advantage in real estate transactions
In some states, radon disclosure is mandatory during home sales, and proactive mitigation can make the entire process smoother and more attractive to buyers.
🏡 Protect Your Home—and Your Health—Starting Today
Radon isn’t something to ignore or postpone. It’s a real, measurable risk—but fortunately, it’s also one of the easiest environmental hazards to fix.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply maintaining your home, radon testing and mitigation should be a top priority.