Mankato – September 20, 2026 -- Homeowners who install a radon mitigation system can expect measurable improvement within 24 to 48 hours, but confirming long-term protection requires follow-up testing, according to a HelloNation article featuring Radon Testing Expert Mitch Kelley of Basement Solutions in Mankato, Minnesota.
A fan and gauge system vents radon gas continuously from beneath the home.
Once installed, a certified radon professional's system uses a fan to pull radon from beneath the foundation through pipes and release it outdoors. A small gauge called a manometer is attached to the system to show whether it's operating correctly; a changed reading or no pressure difference can signal a problem.
Certified professionals recommend testing two to three months after installation.
This follow-up testing confirms that radon levels stay below recommended safety thresholds and validates the system's design. Homeowners are advised to keep detailed records -- dates, results, and testing methods -- which can later support real estate transactions by proving consistent radon reduction.
System maintenance mostly involves watching the manometer and listening for fan noise.
The fan runs continuously and most systems operate for years without major service. Homeowners should periodically check the manometer and listen for unusual sounds to catch issues early.
System design differs by foundation type, from basements to slab-on-grade homes.
A certified radon professional evaluates a home's structure -- basement, crawl space, or slab-on-grade -- before installation, choosing fan strength, pipe placement, and sealing methods accordingly.
Retesting every two years, or after renovations, is recommended to catch changes.
Ventilation changes, foundation shifts, or nearby construction can all affect system performance over time, according to the article. Maintaining documented low radon levels also supports overall indoor air quality and can make a home more appealing to prospective buyers.