5 Signs Your Home Might Have Elevated Radon Levels

Understanding Radon and Its Risks

What is Radon and Why It Matters

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s colorless, tasteless, and odorless making it virtually impossible to detect without specialized equipment. Radon can seep into homes through cracks in the foundation, sump pumps, crawl spaces, or even well water, slowly building up to potentially hazardous levels.

Since radon is invisible and silent, many homeowners are unaware of its presence. Yet according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, contributing to thousands of deaths each year.

Health Impacts of Elevated Radon Levels

Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health complications, most notably lung cancer. The risk increases significantly for smokers, but even non-smokers are at risk if exposed to elevated radon over time. Because symptoms of radon exposure don't appear immediately, homeowners often only become aware of the issue after health problems arise—or through proactive testing.

Identifying Warning Signs of Radon Presence

While you can’t see or smell radon, certain clues might suggest its presence. Here are five signs that your home could have elevated radon levels:

1. Cracks and Openings in the Foundation

Radon gas enters homes through gaps in the foundation, floor-wall joints, sump pits, and even construction joints. If your home has visible cracks in the concrete or unsealed openings, it’s a potential entry point for radon. Homes with basements or slab-on-grade foundations are particularly susceptible.

2. Unexplained Health Issues Among Residents

Radon doesn’t cause symptoms in the short term, but persistent respiratory issues, chronic coughing, shortness of breath, or frequent chest infections might raise concern—especially in non-smokers. While these symptoms could stem from various causes, they should prompt a closer look at indoor air quality, including radon levels.

3. Presence of Water in the Basement or Crawl Space

Damp basements and crawl spaces not only promote mold growth but can also be a sign of radon-prone conditions. Moisture often comes from the same sources that allow radon to seep in—cracks in the foundation or poorly sealed walls. If you’ve experienced flooding or persistent dampness, testing for radon is a smart next step.

4. Changes in Indoor Air Quality

Have you noticed stale or heavy air in certain parts of your home, especially in lower levels? While not a direct symptom of radon, poor ventilation and stagnant air can allow radon to accumulate undetected. Homes with poor air circulation may trap radon gas more easily, increasing the concentration over time.

5. Unusually High Levels in Neighboring Homes

If nearby homes or units have tested for elevated radon levels, your property could be at risk too—especially if your home was built around the same time or shares similar construction. Radon levels can vary even between neighboring houses, but geographic patterns and soil composition often mean one affected home is a strong indicator for others.

The Importance of Testing Your Home for Radon

The only way to know your home’s radon levels is to test. Fortunately, testing is affordable, easy, and widely available. Homeowners can choose between short-term test kits (which measure radon over a few days) and long-term tests (which provide a better year-round average).

How to Test for Radon Effectively

You can purchase a DIY test kit at a local hardware store or online or hire a certified radon measurement professional. DIY kits should be placed in the lowest livable area of your home, away from drafts and moisture, for accurate readings. Follow the instructions carefully and send the kit to a lab for results.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your results show a radon level at or above 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter), the EPA recommends taking action. Even levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L may still pose a health risk. A radon mitigation specialist can assess your home and design a system that effectively reduces radon concentrations.

Mitigation Strategies for High Radon Levels

Common Methods to Reduce Radon Levels

Mitigation typically involves a sub-slab depressurization system, which uses a vent pipe and fan to draw radon from beneath the house and expel it safely outside. Other methods include:

• Sealing foundation cracks and openings

• Installing crawl space ventilation systems

• Increasing ventilation in basements and lower levels

Best Practices for Homeowners

• Test for radon at least every two years

• Retest after major renovations or basement finishing

• Monitor radon levels throughout different seasons

• Consult a certified radon professional for installation and follow-up testing

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon

How Do I Know if My Home Is at Risk?

Any home—regardless of age, location, or design—can have elevated radon levels. The only way to know for sure is to test.

What Are the Geographic Areas Most Affected by Radon?

Radon is present across the U.S., but some regions—like the Midwest, Northeast, and certain mountainous areas—tend to have higher concentrations. State radon maps can help identify local risk levels.

Are There Resources for Homeowners on Radon Awareness?

Yes. The EPA, state health departments, and nonprofit organizations like the American Lung Association offer guides, test kit resources, and certified mitigation professional directories.

What You Can Do

If you suspect your home might have elevated radon levels—or if it’s just been a while since your last test—don’t wait. Testing is the only way to know, and mitigation can significantly reduce your risk of long-term health effects.

Protect your family and your peace of mind. Start with a simple radon test today.