Understanding Radon Gas: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Radon is often called “the silent killer,” and for good reason. It’s a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms in the earth and is released from soil and rock. This invisible gas can enter your home through tiny cracks in the foundation, gaps around plumbing, or even porous building materials — mixing with the air you breathe every day.

Since radon has no color, odor, or taste, it’s impossible to detect without specialized testing. But the danger is real — long-term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year.

Here in the Tennessee Valley, radon levels tend to be significantly higher than the national average due to the region’s unique soil and rock composition. Even homes that don’t show outward signs of structural issues can have dangerously high levels of radon gas.

Because of this, local homeowners are strongly encouraged to have their homes tested — regardless of age, size, or location. Radon is unpredictable and varies from house to house, even within the same neighborhood.

You can begin with a do-it-yourself test kit available at hardware stores or through your local health department. But for the most accurate, reliable results, professional radon testing is highly recommended — especially in high-risk areas like ours.

If your home tests at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) — the level at which the EPA recommends taking action — installing a radon mitigation system is the next step. The good news? Even high radon levels can be effectively reduced with the right solution.

Professional radon mitigation systems are designed to actively pull radon gas from beneath your home and safely vent it outside, preventing it from entering your living space. These systems are quiet, reliable, and often completed in just one day.

Most systems include a powerful exhaust fan — the only moving part — which continuously draws air from below your foundation and directs it through a pipe to the exterior of your home. This simple yet effective process can dramatically lower indoor radon levels, keeping your family safer year-round.

At SV Radon Services, we specialize in professional radon testing and mitigation solutions tailored to homes throughout the Tennessee Valley. Our licensed technicians use industry-proven methods and high-quality equipment to ensure long-lasting protection and reliable results.

Contact us today to schedule a radon test or consultation. Whether you're just getting started or ready to install a mitigation system, we’re here to help you breathe easier.