How many homes in MN have radon?

In Minnesota, more than two in five homes have radon levels that pose a significant health risk.

How do you know if you are in a radon area?

Testing is easy. You place a plastic detector about the size of a biscuit in your living room, another in your bedroom and leave them for three months. After that you post them off and your radon level is calculated. If the level is high you can take steps to reduce radon levels in your home.

Are radon mitigation systems required in Minnesota?

Do the requirements for radon control systems apply to radon remediation work in existing homes? No. Passive radon control systems are only required in new residential structures (section 1303.2400 subp. 1).

What houses are more likely to have radon?

No particular style of home is more likely to have a radon problem; including old homes, new homes, drafty homes, insulated homes, homes with basements, or homes without basements.

How common is radon in MN?

What is the average radon level in Minnesota?

4.4 pCi/L
Comparing Minnesota and U.S. average radon levels U.S. The average radon level in Minnesota (4.4 pCi/L) is more than three times higher than the average U.S. radon level (1.3 pCi/L).

Is it OK to live in a house with radon?

The EPA states, “Radon is a health hazard with a simple solution.” Once radon reduction measures are in place, home buyers need not worry about the quality of the air in the home. Since removing radon is relatively simple, your family will be safe in a home with a radon reduction system in place.

Where is radon most commonly found?

Radon levels are usually higher in basements, cellars and living spaces in contact with the ground. However, considerable radon concentration can also be found above the ground floor. Radon concentrations vary considerably between adjacent buildings, as well as within a building from day to day and from hour to hour.

Is radon a problem in Minnesota?

Radon is a serious public health concern in Minnesota. The average radon level in Minnesota is more than three times higher than the U.S. radon level. This is due to our geology and how our homes are operated. Minnesota homes are closed up or heated most of the year, which can result in higher levels of radon.

How much does radon mitigation cost in MN?

Radon mitigation typically costs between $1000 and $2500. Here in Minnesota, we find most radon mitigation contractors are charging anywhere from $1500 to $2500. Be very cautious of low-priced contractors and do your homework.

Does opening windows reduce radon?

Opening windows improves air circulation and ventilation, helping move radon out of the house and mixing radon-free outside air with indoor air. Make sure all your basement windows are open. Opening basement windows helps reduce negative air pressure, diluting radon with clean outdoor air.

What time of year is radon highest?

winter
The reason that radon levels in the home can be higher in the summer and winter is two-fold. During the winter, the air in your home tends to be much warmer than the outside air, and this temperature difference creates a vacuum within your home.

What state has the highest level of radon?

The highest level of radon run along the Appalachian Mountain range, in the Ohio Valley, and in the States of Iowa, North and South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Illinois.

Where is radon most common?

Radon is found naturally in the soil and rock composing the earth’s crust. In Illinois, central and northern regions have been shown to have higher levels of radon in soil.

Where is radon gas located?

Radon is an odorless, tasteless gas that occurs in nature. It can be found anywhere. On the periodic table, it is element Rn, and is found on the right edge, beside astatine. But, I doubt that’s what you really mean… The real question: where are dangerous radon levels found? The short answer is in buildings.

What are the levels of radon?

Outdoor radon levels in the U.S. range from 0.02 to 0.75 pCi/L (picoCuries per liter), averaging 0.4 pCi/L. But homes draw concentrated radon gas from the ground. Because radon is nine times heavier than air, elevated radon levels build up in basements and on lower floors.