Radon Levels in Minnesota: What Homeowners Need to Know

Radon gas can be dangerous for home and commercial property owners in Minnesota, which is known for having some of the highest radon levels in the country. Understanding why Radon is so prevalent in Minnesota and what steps you can take to reduce its risks is essential for protecting your family’s health.

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. This gas forms from the decay of uranium. It is colorless, odorless, and invisible, which makes it difficult to detect without specialized testing. Outdoors, radon gas disperses quickly and does not pose significant health risks. However, when Radon enters enclosed spaces like homes, it can accumulate to dangerous levels. Exposure to radon levels increases the risk of developing lung cancer. This makes Radon the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.

Why Are Radon Levels High in Minnesota?

Minnesota’s geological composition plays a significant role in its high radon levels. The state has a high concentration of uranium in its soil and rock, which leads to the continuous release of radon gas. Combining cold climates and well-sealed, energy-efficient homes further increases radon levels. When homes are sealed to retain heat during winter, radon gas can accumulate indoors due to limited ventilation. This makes radon mitigation in Minnesota a critical consideration for homeowners.

How Does Radon Enter Homes?

  • Cracks in the Foundation: As Radon rises from the soil, it can enter through cracks or holes in the foundation, as well as gaps around pipes, sump pumps, or other openings.
  • Well Water: If the water supply comes from a private well, Radon can be released when water is used for everyday uses, such as showering.
  • Construction Materials: While less common, Radon can also enter a home through the decay of materials like brick or granite.

Health Risks Associated with Radon

High levels of radon gas can cause various health issues for humans and pets. The radioactive particles from Radon can be inhaled, leading to lung damage and, over time, increasing the likelihood of developing lung cancer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 21,000 people die each year in the U.S. from radon-related lung cancer.

Why Radon Testing is Essential

Since radon gas is invisible and odorless, testing is the only way to determine whether a home has elevated radon levels. The EPA recommends testing all homes in Minnesota, regardless of age or location, since radon levels can vary, even between nearby properties. To reduce concentrations, homes with four picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher should undergo radon mitigation.

Strategies for Radon Mitigation in Minnesota

Radon Mitigation System Installation

If radon testing indicates high levels of radon gas, installing a radon mitigation system is the most effective solution. A typical radon mitigation system consists of pipes and fans that work together to vent radon gas from beneath the home to the outside. The system’s design may vary based on the home’s foundation type and layout, ensuring optimal radon reduction.

  • Active Soil Depressurization (A.S.D.) is the most common radon mitigation technique. It involves drawing Radon from beneath the foundation and venting it outside. It works effectively for homes with basements, crawl spaces, or slab-on-grade foundations.
  • Crawl Space Encapsulation: Sealing crawl spaces with a membrane can help reduce radon entry and improve the efficiency of an A.S.D. system.

Radon Mitigation System Maintenance

Regular system maintenance is necessary to ensure the system is working properly year-round.

  • Radon Testing Every Two Years: Regular testing confirms that radon levels remain below the EPA’s recommended action level.
  • Radon Fan Replacement: Radon fans typically last 5-15 years. If the fan stops working, it must be replaced promptly to maintain the system’s effectiveness.
  • System Checks for Leaks: The system’s piping and seals should be inspected periodically to prevent radon leakage back into the home.

Temporary Measures to Lower Radon Levels

While waiting for professional radon mitigation services, homeowners can take temporary measures to reduce radon levels:

  • Sealing Cracks and Openings: Caulking visible cracks in the foundation or around windows can help limit radon entry, although it is not a permanent solution.
  • Increasing Ventilation: Opening windows and using fans to increase airflow can temporarily lower radon concentrations. However, this is only short-term and should not replace professional mitigation.

Why Are Radon Levels Higher in Some Homes Than Others?

Several factors contribute to variations in radon levels, even within the same neighborhood:

  • Soil: Large quantities of uranium in the soil beneath the home affect how much Radon is released.
  • Foundation Type: Homes with basements or crawl spaces may have higher radon levels due to increased contact with the soil.
  • Construction Techniques: Modern energy-efficient homes tend to be more airtight, which can lead to higher indoor radon concentrations.

Radon Testing Frequency for Minnesota Homes

For homes in Minnesota, testing for Radon every two years is recommended, even if a radon mitigation system is already in place. Additional testing may be needed if:

  • Major Renovations are Performed: Remodeling can alter the airflow in a home, potentially impacting radon levels.
  • Changes in Home Use: Testing is essential to ensure safe radon levels if a basement or lower level is converted into a living space.
  • Recent Real Estate Transactions: Testing before buying or selling a home ensures that radon concerns are addressed.

Protect Your Home and Family from Radon Gas

Radon gas is a significant health risk in Minnesota, but regular testing and proper mitigation can effectively reduce the danger. If radon levels in your home are above four pCi/L, the best course of action is to contact a qualified radon professional for a radon mitigation system installation.

Low Radon offers expert radon testing, mitigation system installation, and maintenance services across Minnesota to help you keep your home safe. Our certified professionals provide customized radon mitigation solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Request a quote from Low Radon today to learn how we can help protect your family from radon exposure.