About a Radon Mitigation System
A quick overview of how mitigation works and what to expect.
Most homeowners have never seen a radon mitigation system before. This brief guide covers the essentials, so you know what’s involved before you decide.
What a System Is
A radon mitigation system is a small ventilation setup that:
- pulls radon from beneath your home
- vents it safely above the roofline
- runs quietly and continuously
- includes a simple gauge to show it’s working
Where the System Goes
Depending on your home, the system may be:
- Internal — pipe hidden in walls, fan in attic
- External — pipe and fan on the outside of the home
- Over the Garage — pipe routed through garage attic
Each option has different visibility, noise, and cost considerations.
What Installation Involves
Mitigation is straightforward, but it is still a construction project.
Most installations take less than a day and may include:
- drilling a hole in the basement slab
- sealing cracks or sump lids
- running pipe through utility areas, closets, or garage
- installing a small fan outside the living space
Some piping may be visible depending on your home’s layout.
Typical Cost
Most systems fall within:
- $1,500–$2,000 for standard homes
- $3,000 or more for larger or more complex layouts
Costs vary based on routing, foundation type, and fan placement.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
- Significantly reduces radon levels
- Works automatically
- Low operating cost
- Helps with home resale
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Requires drilling through concrete
- Pipes may be visible
- Fans make a small amount of noise
- Exterior systems change the look of the home
- Fans need replacement every 5–10+ years
Who Should Consider Mitigation Now
- your long‑term test is 4.0 pCi/L or higher
- you use lower‑level spaces regularly
- someone in the home is more sensitive
- you’re planning to sell your home
- you want a long‑term, set‑and‑forget solution