Radon system repair and checks
A radon system only works if the fan is running. Here's what to watch for and when to call.
Radon fans run around the clock, and like any motor they eventually wear out. Systems also get damaged by storms, remodeling or settling. Checking your system now and then, and retesting every couple of years, keeps it doing its job.
Signs your system needs attention
- The manometer liquid is level (both sides even), meaning no suction
- The fan is silent, rattling, humming loudly or vibrating
- A system alarm is sounding
- The pipe is cracked, disconnected or damaged
- A retest shows radon back near or above 4 pCi/L
- You finished the basement or added on since the system went in
How long do radon fans last?
Fan life varies by model and conditions. Many manufacturers offer multi-year warranties. Outdoor fans face Iowa's heat, cold and storms, so check them after severe weather, including the kind of wind events Cedar Rapids saw in the 2020 derecho.
Should I retest with a system in place?
Yes. The EPA recommends retesting at least every two years, and after major renovations, to make sure the system is still working. A short-term test is enough for a routine check.
Upgrades and add-ons
- Adding a system alarm so you know right away if the fan stops.
- Adding a suction point after an addition or basement finish.
- Rerouting an exterior pipe or moving a noisy fan.
Prices come from the radon company after they've looked at your home. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
How do I read my radon manometer?
It's the U-shaped tube on the pipe. When the system is running, the liquid levels are uneven. If both sides are even, the fan may have stopped.
Can I replace a radon fan myself?
Fans are wired and sealed into the pipe, and Iowa requires a credential for paid mitigation work. A credentialed company can confirm the right fan and test afterward.
Related services
More background: Iowa radon guide.
Radon test came back high?
Call now and a local radon mitigation company will look at your home and quote a system.