Radon Resources & Information
Everything you need to know about radon gas, testing, mitigation, and protecting your family's health.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It's invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing equipment. Much of the Interior Okanagan's granitic bedrock is associated with higher radon potential than average, which is one of the reasons testing matters here.
Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause overall, responsible for approximately 3,200 lung cancer deaths in Canada each year.
Risk Factors
- Smoking + Radon: Dramatically increases lung cancer risk
- Long-term exposure: Risk increases with duration and concentration
- Age: Children are more susceptible due to higher breathing rates
- Genetics: Family history of lung cancer increases risk
Health Canada Guidelines
Action Level: 200 Bq/m³ (becquerels per cubic meter)
Below 200 Bq/m³: Low risk, no action required
200-600 Bq/m³: Moderate risk, mitigation recommended within 2 years
Above 600 Bq/m³: High risk, mitigation required within 1 year
Radon Testing Guide
When to Test
- Before buying or selling a home
- After major renovations
- Every 2-5 years for ongoing monitoring
- If you've never tested your home
- If neighbors have high radon levels
Testing Methods
Short-term Testing (2-7 days)
Best for: Quick screening, real estate transactions
Equipment: Charcoal canisters, electret detectors
Accuracy: Good snapshot, may miss seasonal variations
Long-term Testing (90+ days)
Best for: Accurate annual average, Health Canada recommended
Equipment: Alpha track detectors, continuous monitors
Accuracy: Most reliable, accounts for seasonal changes
Testing Best Practices
- Test in the lowest livable level of your home
- Keep windows and doors closed (except for normal entry/exit)
- Avoid testing during severe weather
- Don't test in kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms
- Place detectors at least 20 inches from walls
- Keep detectors away from drafts and heat sources
Radon Mitigation Guide
Common Mitigation Methods
Sub-slab Depressurization (SSD)
Most common method - Fan-powered system draws radon from beneath foundation
Effectiveness: 90-99% reduction
Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Crawl Space Ventilation
For homes with crawl spaces - Increases air circulation to reduce radon
Effectiveness: 70-90% reduction
Cost: $800 - $2,000
Sealing Cracks
Supplementary method - Seals entry points but not effective alone
Effectiveness: 10-50% reduction
Cost: $200 - $800
Heat Recovery Ventilation
Whole-house solution - Increases overall air exchange
Effectiveness: 25-75% reduction
Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Choosing the Right System
The best mitigation method depends on your home's construction, radon levels, and specific conditions. Our certified professionals will assess your home and recommend the most effective solution.
Radon System Maintenance
Regular Maintenance Tasks
- Monthly: Check system warning light/gauge
- Quarterly: Listen for unusual fan noises
- Annually: Professional system inspection
- Every 2 years: Post-mitigation radon testing
- As needed: Clear debris from exterior components
Warning Signs
Contact us immediately if you notice:
- Warning light is on or gauge shows no suction
- Unusual noises from the fan
- Visible damage to pipes or fan housing
- Strong odors near the system
- Ice formation on exterior components
System Lifespan
Properly maintained radon mitigation systems typically last 15-20 years. Fans may need replacement every 10-15 years depending on usage and environmental conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short-term testing typically costs $150-$300, while long-term testing ranges from $200-$400. We offer free consultations to help you choose the right testing method for your needs.
DIY test kits are available, but professional testing ensures proper placement, handling, and analysis. For real estate transactions or important decisions, professional testing is recommended.
Radon levels can vary significantly between neighboring homes due to differences in construction, soil conditions, and ventilation. You should still test your own home even if neighbors have low levels.
Properly installed radon mitigation systems are highly effective, typically reducing radon levels by 90-99%. Most systems can reduce levels below Health Canada's guideline of 200 Bq/m³.
Radon mitigation systems typically cost $50-$150 per year to operate, similar to running a 60-100 watt light bulb continuously. The health benefits far outweigh the minimal energy costs.
Yes, radon levels can change due to weather, seasons, home modifications, and soil conditions. This is why Health Canada recommends retesting every 2-5 years and after major renovations.
While radon concentrations are typically highest in basements and lower levels, it can affect any level of a home. Upper floors usually have lower levels, but testing is still recommended for frequently occupied areas.
Need More Information?
Our radon experts are here to answer your questions and help you protect your family's health. Contact us for personalized advice and professional testing services.