Frequently Asked Questions About Radon
Understanding Radon
What is radon and why is it dangerous?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It is colourless and odourless — undetectable without testing equipment. Long-term exposure to elevated radon is the leading environmental cause of lung cancer in Canada, responsible for an estimated 3,200 deaths per year according to Health Canada.
What is the Health Canada radon guideline?
Health Canada recommends action when long-term radon levels reach 200 Bq/m3 or higher. Some professionals advise acting at 150 Bq/m3 based on evolving research. The U.S. EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L (approximately 148 Bq/m3).
Is radon common in Canada?
Yes. Health Canada estimates roughly 7% of Canadian homes have radon at or above 200 Bq/m3. Levels vary significantly by region. Parts of BC (including the Okanagan), Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia have higher radon potential. Every home is different: two houses on the same street can have dramatically different levels.
Does a new home have radon?
Yes. New construction can have radon, and tightly built energy-efficient homes can accumulate it faster than older draftier homes. Some provinces now require radon rough-in for new builds, which makes future mitigation easier but does not eliminate radon.
Testing
How do I test for radon?
Place a test device on the lowest lived-in level of your home. Two main types exist: passive alpha-track kits (mailed to a lab after 90 days) and active digital monitors (give readings in hours to days). See our full testing guide.
How long do I need to test?
At least 90 days for the most accurate result. This smooths out daily and seasonal fluctuations to give a reliable long-term average. Digital monitors provide useful initial readings in 1 to 48 hours, but short-term results alone should not drive major decisions.
Where should I place the test device?
On the lowest lived-in level, 2 to 7 feet above the floor, at least 20 inches from walls. Avoid kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and areas near exterior doors, windows, or heat sources. For passive kits, choose the location carefully and leave the device undisturbed for the entire period.
How many test kits do I need?
At minimum, one per regularly occupied level. A finished basement and the main floor may have very different readings. Large homes or multi-unit buildings benefit from additional detectors in high-use rooms.
What is the difference between an alpha-track kit and a digital monitor?
Alpha-track kits (like the Radtrak3) are passive, inexpensive, and lab-analyzed, giving a true long-term average. Digital monitors (like the Corentium Home or RadonEye RD200) measure continuously and display results in real time. Lab kits give the most defensible long-term data; digital monitors are ideal for ongoing awareness and post-mitigation tracking.
Can I use a digital monitor for post-mitigation testing?
Yes. A digital monitor lets you continuously track radon after your system is installed. Allow 30 to 90 days post-installation before drawing firm conclusions.
Mitigation
What is sub-slab depressurization?
The most effective radon mitigation method. A fan draws radon-laden soil gas from beneath your foundation through PVC piping and exhausts it outside before it can enter your home. A properly installed system reduces radon by 80 to 99% in most homes. Full explanation here.
How much does radon mitigation cost in Canada?
Professional installation typically runs $1,500 to $3,000 depending on home complexity and region. A DIY installation using parts from Radon Depot can cost $400 to $700 in materials.
Do I need a professional to install a mitigation system?
Not necessarily. Many homeowners successfully install their own sub-slab depressurization systems. It requires drilling through concrete, routing PVC pipe, and making a basic electrical connection. If you prefer a professional, look for a C-NRPP certified radon mitigator in your area.
Which fan do I need?
The right fan depends on soil conditions and pipe run length. The RadonAway RP145 handles most typical residential installs. Dense or clay soils call for the GX4 or GX5A. See our full fan selection guide.
Do RadonAway fans come with a power cord?
No. RadonAway fans are sold without a power cord. You need to purchase a compatible cord separately or have the fan hardwired by a licensed electrician. Shop the 8-foot power cord with bushing.
How long do radon fans run?
Continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Radon fans are engineered for constant operation. Most residential fans draw between 20 and 90 watts.
How do I know my mitigation system is working?
Two ways: (1) A U-tube manometer on your pipe shows at a glance that the fan is creating suction. (2) Re-test with a radon detector 30 to 90 days post-installation to confirm levels have dropped.
My sump pit has no cover. Is that a problem?
Yes. An open sump pit is one of the most significant radon entry points in a basement, and an uncovered pit undermines any mitigation system. A radon-tight sump dome integrates the pit into the depressurization system and is strongly recommended.
Products and Orders
Do you ship across Canada?
Yes. Contact us for shipping details for your region.
Are your products certified for use in Canada?
Yes. RadonAway fans are ETL listed and meet CSA C22.2 electrical standards. Airthings, RadonEye, and Radonova products are calibrated to Health Canada guidelines for radon measurement.
What is your return policy?
Contact us to discuss returns or exchanges. Unused products in original packaging may be eligible for return.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us — we are happy to help you choose the right products for your situation.
