Over the years, I've seen a lot of things hidden behind walls, under floors, and in basements. But one of the most dangerous things I find can’t be seen, smelled, or touched: radon gas. And it’s more common than people think, especially here in Utah.
In this post, I will walk you through everything homeowners should know about radon testing in Utah. We'll talk about what radon is, why it matters, how to test for it, and what to do if your levels are too high. I'll also share some real stories from Utah homeowners who discovered radon during a home inspection.
What Is Radon and Why Is It Dangerous?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. It comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Outside, it’s harmless because it gets diluted in the open air. But it can build up to dangerous levels when it seeps into a home through cracks in the foundation or basement walls.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right after smoking. According to the EPA, radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year. It’s especially dangerous because you can’t see or smell it.
Why Utah Homes Are at Higher Risk
Utah is one of the states with naturally high radon levels. Our geology includes large amounts of granite and other uranium-rich rock that give off radon. Combine that with our cold winters, which keep homes sealed up tight for months at a time, and it’s easy to see why radon can build up fast here.
In fact, according to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality:
- About 1 in 3 Utah homes tested have radon levels above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter).
- Some homes have levels much higher than that, even in the same neighborhood as lower-level homes.
That’s why I always recommend a home radon inspection during any real estate transaction or before finishing a basement.
How Radon Gets Into Homes
Radon gas enters your home through the lowest levels: basements, crawl spaces, or slab floors. It comes up from the ground through:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Gaps around pipes or sump pumps
- Floor drains
- Unsealed crawl spaces
- Construction joints
Once inside, the gas gets trapped and builds up. If your HVAC system circulates air throughout the home, radon can reach living spaces on upper floors too.
When Should You Test for Radon?
I get this question a lot. The truth is, every home should be tested at least once, and especially in these situations:
- Buying or selling a home
- Before finishing a basement
- After major renovations
- Every 2-5 years, even if you've tested before
- If a neighbor’s home has high radon levels
Radon levels can change over time based on shifts in the soil, home renovations, or changes in your HVAC system.
How Radon Testing Works
There are two main types of radon tests:
1. Short-Term Testing
This test lasts between 2 and 7 days. We use an electronic monitor placed in the lowest livable area of the home. It records levels hourly and gives an accurate average by the end.
This is what we use most often during a home radon inspection. It’s quick, non-invasive, and gives you fast results.
2. Long-Term Testing
These tests run from 90 days to a year. They give a more accurate picture of year-round exposure. This is a good option if you’re living in the home and want a long-term safety check.
What Happens If Radon Levels Are High?
If your test shows levels at or above 4.0 pCi/L, the EPA recommends taking action. That doesn’t mean panic; it only means it’s time to install a radon mitigation system.
I often tell homeowners that radon is like high cholesterol. You don’t want it, but if you catch it early, it can be managed.
How Radon Mitigation Systems Work
A mitigation system pulls radon from beneath your home and vents it outside before it can enter your living space. Here’s how it typically works:
- A suction point is created in the basement floor or crawl space.
- PVC piping runs from the suction point up through the home or along the outside.
- An inline fan continuously pulls radon gas from under the house and vents it above the roofline.
This creates negative pressure under the home, so radon is redirected outside instead of leaking in.
Most systems are very quiet and use little electricity. Some also include sealing foundation cracks and adding ventilation if needed.
Real Stories from Utah Homeowners
The Johnsons in South Jordan
They were selling their home and wanted a pre-sale inspection. We did a radon test as part of the process and found a level of 7.8 pCi/L. They had no idea. A mitigation system brought it down to 0.9, and the sale went through smoothly.
The Browns in Ogden
They were finishing their basement for a rental unit. We recommended radon testing first, and the results came back at 5.4. They had a mitigation system installed before finishing the space. Now their renters and family are safer.
The Taylors in Provo
They had lived in their home for 15 years. During a general home inspection for a refinance, we did a radon test and found levels of 6.3. They were shocked. After mitigation, the levels dropped to under 1.0. They said it gave them peace of mind.
Why Choose Quality Home Solutions for Radon Testing
At Quality Home Solutions, we use professional-grade equipment and follow strict EPA guidelines for all our radon inspections. We’re licensed, insured, and trained to:
- Conduct fast, accurate testing
- Provide easy-to-read reports
- Recommend trusted mitigation solutions
We also coordinate with radon mitigation professionals if needed. Our goal is to make the process simple, honest, and effective.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you’re a Utah homeowner and you haven’t had a radon test done, now is the time. It’s easy, affordable, and could save your life.
- Schedule a professional radon test
- Don’t finish a basement without testing first
- Re-test every few years or after major renovations
Even if your neighbor’s home is safe, your house might not be. Radon levels vary from house to house, even on the same street.
Your Family’s Health Comes First
Radon gas is silent, invisible, and dangerous, but it’s also manageable. With one quick test, you can know where your home stands. And if you do have high levels, a mitigation system can fix it.
I’ve inspected hundreds of homes across Utah, and I can tell you this: radon testing isn’t something to skip. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference in your family’s health and your home’s value.
Ready to schedule your radon test? Let’s do it. Contact us at Quality Home Solutions or get a free estimate for your inspection today.
