Radon Levels on the Rise and What the 2024 Cross-Canada Radon Survey Means for Calgary Homeowners
The 2024 Cross-Canada Radon Survey brings important news for Canadians: 18% of homes across the country now exceed Health Canada's recommended radon threshold of 200 Bq/m³, compared to only 7% in 2012. This growing issue directly affects Calgary homeowners, with 1 in 6 homes in the city testing above safe radon levels. The findings show that newer, energy-efficient homes may also be more prone to radon accumulation, making it crucial to test and mitigate as needed Global News and Evict Radon.
If you’re a homeowner in Calgary, it’s time to take radon seriously. In this post, we’ll explore the study's key findings, explain how radon exposure impacts your health, and offer practical advice on testing and mitigation.
What is Radon, and Why Should You Care?
Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas formed when uranium in soil, rocks, and water breaks down. While radon exists naturally outdoors at low concentrations, it can become dangerous if trapped inside buildings. Prolonged exposure to high radon levels can cause lung cancer, particularly in non-smokers.
In fact, according to the Evict Radon National Study radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers, responsible for about 16% of lung cancer cases in Canada.
Key Findings from the 2024 Cross-Canada Radon Survey
The 2024 study, led by Evict Radon and Health Canada, collected data from over 75,000 homes. Here’s what it uncovered:
18% of homes exceeded Health Canada’s 200 Bq/m³ action threshold.
1 in 6 homes in Calgary had radon levels above the recommended limit.
Okotoks, High River, and Strathmore reported even higher levels, with 1 in 4 homes exceeding safe thresholds.
Energy-efficient homes are more vulnerable to radon buildup due to their airtight construction Global News.
This shift highlights the need for more widespread awareness. Homeowners can no longer assume their homes are safe without testing. In colder climates like Calgary, the risk is even greater during winter, when windows are sealed and indoor radon accumulates.
How to Test Your Calgary Home for Radon
Testing your home is the only way to know if you’re at risk. Radon is both invisible and odorless, making it impossible to detect without proper tools. Fortunately, testing is simple and affordable.
DIY Radon Test Kits and Consumer Radon Monitors
If you’re new to radon testing, understanding your options is important to ensure the safety of your home. Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can seep into your home from the ground and pose serious health risks over time. Testing your home for radon is the first step in protecting your family.
One option for homeowners is to use DIY radon test kits, which are widely available at hardware stores or online. These kits typically come in two types: short-term and long-term tests. Companies like Radonova offer kits that homeowners can easily set up themselves.
Short-term tests measure radon levels over a period of 2 to 7 days and can give a quick snapshot of radon concentration, but they may not provide an accurate representation of average radon levels, which can fluctuate daily and seasonally.
In contrast, long-term tests, which last 90 days or more, are recommended for the most reliable assessment because they account for these fluctuations, giving a more comprehensive picture of your home’s radon exposure. Companies like Radonova offer long-term test kits that are easy to use—homeowners simply set up the device according to the instructions, leave it in place for the specified duration, and then send it to a lab for analysis.
Another popular option is to use consumer radon monitors, which are electronic devices designed for continuous radon measurement. These monitors provide real-time data and feature digital displays that allow homeowners to track radon levels daily. They are ideal for those who want to actively monitor how radon concentrations change over time, such as in response to weather or seasonal shifts. Many consumer monitors also have features like alarm settings to notify you if radon levels exceed safe thresholds, making them a convenient and proactive tool for maintaining a safe living environment.
Both options—DIY test kits and consumer radon monitors—can help you determine whether radon mitigation is needed to reduce radon levels in your home. Always remember that if you detect high radon levels, taking action quickly can significantly lower the associated health risks.
Professional Radon Testing
If you prefer faster results or need to meet deadlines, like during a real estate transaction, hiring a C-NRPP Certified Professional for continuous radon monitoring is a good option. Professionals provide detailed reports and reliable results, helping you act quickly if mitigation is needed.
Mitigating Radon: How to Make Your Home Safe
If testing reveals high radon levels, don’t panic. Mitigation systems can lower radon to safe levels. Here are 5 Signs You May Need a Radon Mitigation System.
How Radon Mitigation Works
The most effective mitigation strategy is sub-slab depressurization, where a radon fan and vent pipe system draw radon from beneath the home and release it outside. In addition, sealing foundation cracks and openings prevents radon from entering your home.
At Spectra Radon, we specialize in custom mitigation solutions designed for Calgary’s climate and building types. Our systems include energy-efficient fans that run quietly, ensuring comfort and safety without driving up energy costs.
Radon and Calgary’s Real Estate Market
With radon awareness growing, radon testing is fast becoming an essential part of real estate transaction.
For Buyers
Request a radon report from the seller or conduct your own test during the home inspection.
Negotiate based on the results: If the radon level is high, you can ask the seller to install a mitigation system or offer a price reduction to cover future installation costs.
For Sellers
Test your home before listing: A radon-free certificate can make your property more attractive to buyers.
Proactively mitigate if necessary to avoid surprises during negotiations.
Including radon testing in your home buying or selling process provides peace of mind and can streamline the transaction.
What Health Canada Recommends for Radon
Health Canada advises homeowners to take action if radon levels exceed 200 Bq/m³. For the best results, they recommend hiring C-NRPP-certified professionals to handle testing and mitigation. In Calgary, the winter months are ideal for testing, as closed windows can cause radon levels to spike indoors.
Take Action Today to Protect Your Family
The 2024 survey makes it clear: radon is a growing issue for Canadian homeowners, especially in Calgary. With 1 in 6 homes exceeding safe limits, testing and mitigation are no longer optional—they’re essential.
At Spectra Radon, we offer affordable radon testing and mitigation services designed to keep Calgary homes safe. Whether you want a simple DIY test kit or need professional installation, we have the expertise to help.
Don’t wait for winter’s radon peak—book a test today and ensure your home is protected.
Ready to Get Started? Contact Spectra Radon
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a safer home, contact us today to schedule a radon test or consultation. Let us help you protect what matters most—your family’s health and safety.