How to Reduce Radon in Long Beach Homes

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that forms naturally from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, sump pits, and other openings, accumulating to dangerous levels over time. In Long Beach, California, where homes are built on varied geological substrates—including coastal alluvium and sedimentary layers—radon exposure is a legitimate concern. While California as a whole has lower average radon levels compared to other U.S. regions, localized hotspots exist, particularly in areas with higher uranium content in the underlying geology. Long Beach residents may unknowingly be exposed to elevated radon concentrations, putting themselves and their families at increased risk for lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths annually. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to identifying, measuring, and reducing radon levels in Long Beach homes, ensuring a safer, healthier indoor environment for residents.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand Radon Risk in Long Beach

Before taking action, it’s essential to understand your home’s potential for radon exposure. The EPA classifies counties into three radon zones based on predicted average indoor radon levels: Zone 1 (highest risk), Zone 2 (moderate risk), and Zone 3 (low risk). Los Angeles County, which includes Long Beach, is primarily classified as Zone 2, indicating moderate potential for elevated radon levels. However, this classification is a generalization. Local geology varies significantly—areas near the Puente Hills, older alluvial deposits near the waterfront, and regions with fractured bedrock may have higher radon potential. Historical data from the California Department of Public Health and the Long Beach Health Department show that while most homes test below 4 pCi/L (the EPA’s action level), a small but significant percentage exceed this threshold. Understanding your neighborhood’s geological history can help prioritize testing. Homes built on fill soil, near fault lines, or with basements or crawlspaces are at higher risk.

Step 2: Test Your Home for Radon

Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels. Do not rely on neighbor’s results or assumptions based on home age or construction type. There are two primary types of radon tests: short-term and long-term.

Short-term tests last from 2 to 90 days and are ideal for initial screening. They include charcoal canisters, alpha-track detectors, and continuous electronic monitors. For Long Beach residents, a 48- to 72-hour charcoal canister test is often sufficient for a baseline reading. These tests are inexpensive, available at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, or through certified radon professionals.

Long-term tests, which last more than 90 days, provide a more accurate annual average and are recommended if you’re planning to buy or sell a home. Alpha-track detectors are commonly used for long-term testing. Place the test kit in the lowest lived-in level of your home—typically the basement, ground floor, or first level if there’s no basement. Avoid placing it in kitchens, bathrooms, or near windows, doors, or HVAC vents. Follow manufacturer instructions precisely. Close all windows and exterior doors 12 hours before and during the test to ensure accurate results.

After the test period, mail the device to the lab as instructed. Results are typically delivered within a week. If your result is 4 pCi/L or higher, the EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon. Even levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration for mitigation, especially if you have children, smokers, or respiratory conditions in the household.

Step 3: Confirm Elevated Levels with a Second Test

If your first test shows elevated radon, conduct a second test before investing in mitigation. A follow-up short-term test or a long-term test will confirm whether the initial reading was an anomaly due to weather, seasonal changes, or improper placement. Radon levels fluctuate daily and seasonally—often peaking during colder months when homes are sealed tightly. In Long Beach, where winters are mild, seasonal variation may be less dramatic than in northern states, but it still occurs. A second test increases confidence in your results and prevents unnecessary expenses.

Step 4: Hire a Certified Radon Mitigation Professional

While some DIY radon reduction methods exist, professional mitigation is the most reliable and effective solution for levels above 4 pCi/L. In California, radon mitigation contractors should be certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). These certifications ensure technicians have completed training in soil depressurization techniques, building science, and safety protocols. Avoid unlicensed handymen or general contractors who claim to “do radon work.”

Ask potential contractors for proof of certification, references, and a written proposal detailing the scope of work, materials used, warranty, and estimated cost. A reputable contractor will conduct a pre-mitigation radon test, perform a home inspection to identify entry points, and design a system tailored to your home’s foundation type.

Step 5: Install a Soil Depressurization System

The most effective and widely used method for reducing radon is Active Soil Depressurization (ASD). This system works by creating a vacuum beneath the home’s foundation, drawing radon gas out before it enters the living space, and venting it safely above the roofline.

For homes with slab-on-grade foundations (common in Long Beach), a sub-slab depressurization system is installed. A 3- to 4-inch PVC pipe is drilled through the concrete slab into the gravel or soil below. A specially designed, continuously running fan is connected to the pipe, creating negative pressure that pulls radon from the soil. The pipe then extends vertically through the home’s interior or exterior wall and terminates above the roofline, where the gas disperses harmlessly into the atmosphere.

For homes with crawlspaces, a membrane-covered crawlspace depressurization system is used. A high-density plastic sheet is sealed over the exposed soil, and a vent pipe and fan are installed to draw radon from beneath the membrane. In some cases, a combination of both methods is used.

System performance is measured by a post-installation radon test. A properly installed ASD system can reduce radon levels by 80% to 99%. Most systems are quiet, require minimal maintenance, and last 10–15 years with periodic fan checks.

Step 6: Seal Entry Points

While sealing alone is not sufficient to reduce high radon levels, it enhances the effectiveness of a depressurization system. Seal cracks in concrete floors and walls, gaps around utility penetrations (pipes, wires, sump pumps), and openings in the foundation using polyurethane caulk or hydraulic cement. Pay special attention to joints between the slab and foundation walls. In crawlspaces, seal around piers, vents, and perimeter edges. Use EPA-approved materials that are durable and resistant to moisture and soil pressure. Avoid paint or sealants marketed as “radon-proof”—they are ineffective without a depressurization system.

Step 7: Improve Indoor Ventilation

Increasing air exchange can help dilute radon concentrations, especially in homes with moderate levels. In Long Beach’s mild climate, opening windows occasionally can help—but this is not a long-term solution. Consider installing a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV). These systems bring in fresh outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air, maintaining temperature and humidity control while improving air quality. HRVs are particularly beneficial in tightly sealed modern homes. They can reduce radon levels by 25% to 50% when used in conjunction with other mitigation strategies.

Step 8: Test Again After Mitigation

After any mitigation system is installed, retest your home 24 to 48 hours later and again 30 days after installation to ensure the system is functioning correctly. Radon levels should drop significantly. If levels remain above 4 pCi/L, the system may need adjustment—such as increasing fan speed, adding additional suction points, or improving sealing. Re-testing is also recommended every two years to monitor system performance and ensure ongoing safety.

Step 9: Maintain the System

Radon mitigation systems require minimal maintenance but should be inspected annually. Check the manometer (a U-shaped gauge attached to the pipe) to ensure the fan is creating proper suction—liquid levels should be offset. Listen for unusual noises from the fan; a malfunctioning fan may need replacement. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, leaves, or debris. If the fan fails, radon levels can rise quickly, so have a backup plan or replacement fan on hand. Most systems come with a 5- to 10-year warranty on the fan and a 2-year warranty on installation.

Best Practices

Test Every Home, Regardless of Age or Location

Many Long Beach residents assume that newer homes or those built on elevated foundations are radon-free. This is a dangerous misconception. Radon enters homes through any opening in contact with the ground. Even homes built on stilts, with no basement, can have elevated levels if the soil beneath the structure contains uranium. Test all homes—new or old, urban or suburban.

Test During Different Seasons

Radon levels are typically higher in winter due to the “stack effect”—warm air rising and drawing in soil gas from below. However, in Long Beach, where seasonal temperature shifts are minimal, radon can still accumulate during periods of high indoor air tightness, such as during extended heat waves when air conditioning units run continuously. Test in both spring and fall for the most accurate annual average.

Include Radon Testing in Home Inspections

If you’re buying or selling a home in Long Beach, insist on radon testing as part of the inspection process. Many home inspectors offer radon testing as an add-on service. A clean radon report can be a strong selling point, while a high reading can be addressed before closing, avoiding future liability and health risks. California law does not require radon disclosure, but ethical real estate professionals include it as part of due diligence.

Use Certified Testing Kits and Labs

Not all radon test kits are created equal. Choose kits that are EPA-recognized and analyzed by labs certified under the National Radon Laboratory Certification Program. Avoid free or discounted kits from unverified sources. Reputable labs provide chain-of-custody documentation and accurate results with a margin of error below 10%.

Don’t Rely on Air Purifiers or Ionizers

Many consumers mistakenly believe that HEPA filters or ionizing air purifiers can remove radon. These devices capture airborne particles but do not affect radon gas, which is a radioactive element, not a particulate. They may improve general air quality but offer zero protection against radon exposure.

Consider Radon-Resistant New Construction (RRNC)

If you’re building a new home in Long Beach, incorporate radon-resistant features during construction. RRNC includes a gas-permeable layer (usually 4 inches of gravel) beneath the slab, a plastic sheeting vapor barrier, a sealed foundation, and a roughed-in vent pipe that can be easily connected to a fan later if needed. These features cost only $350–$750 to install during construction but can save $1,200–$2,500 in retrofit costs later. Many builders in Long Beach now offer RRNC as a standard or optional upgrade.

Be Aware of Waterborne Radon

While most radon enters homes through soil, well water can also be a source, especially in homes with private wells. Long Beach relies primarily on municipal water, which is treated and monitored. However, some older homes or properties in outlying areas may use private wells. If you have a private well, test your water for radon. If levels exceed 4,000 pCi/L, install an aeration system or granular activated carbon filter. Municipal water users in Long Beach are not at significant risk from radon in water.

Inform Household Members

Radon exposure is a silent threat. Educate family members, especially children and elderly residents, about the risks and the importance of testing. Make radon awareness part of your home safety routine, just like checking smoke detectors.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Radon Test Kits

For DIY testing, the following kits are EPA-recognized and widely used in California:

• ProLab Radon Test Kit – Short-term charcoal canister; includes lab analysis and results in 5–7 days.
• Airthings Corentium Home – Digital continuous radon monitor; provides real-time readings, historical trends, and mobile app integration.
• Radon Eye RD200 – Electronic monitor with data logging; ideal for long-term tracking.
• Alpha Track Long-Term Test Kit – Best for annual averages; mailed to a certified lab for analysis.

California-Specific Resources

Residents of Long Beach can access free or low-cost resources through state and local programs:

• California Department of Public Health – Radon Program – Offers educational materials, lists of certified professionals, and guidance on testing protocols. Website: cdph.ca.gov/radon
• Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services – Provides community outreach and occasionally hosts free radon testing events during National Radon Action Month (January).
• University of California Cooperative Extension – Offers free webinars and publications on indoor air quality and radon mitigation for homeowners.

Find Certified Mitigation Professionals

Use the following directories to locate qualified radon professionals in Southern California:

• National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) – Search by zip code: nrpp.info
• National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) – Certified contractor database: nrsb.org
• California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) – Verify contractor licenses: cslb.ca.gov

Financial Assistance and Rebates

While California does not currently offer state-funded radon mitigation rebates, some local utilities and nonprofit organizations may provide support:

• SoCalGas Energy Efficiency Programs – Occasionally offers incentives for home air sealing and ventilation upgrades that indirectly reduce radon entry.
• Long Beach Community Development Department – May provide grants for low-income homeowners to address environmental health hazards, including radon, under federal HOME Investment Partnerships funds.
• Nonprofit Housing Associations – Organizations like Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles may assist qualifying families with radon mitigation as part of home repair programs.

Mobile Apps for Radon Monitoring

For homeowners with continuous monitors:

• Airthings View – Syncs with Corentium devices to track radon, temperature, and humidity trends.
• Radon Mapper – Community-driven app that lets users anonymously share test results to map regional radon levels.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Smith Family in Signal Hill

The Smiths, residents of a 1965 ranch-style home in Signal Hill (adjacent to Long Beach), noticed their teenage daughter had frequent respiratory issues. Concerned, they tested their home and found radon levels at 8.2 pCi/L. They hired an NRPP-certified contractor who installed a sub-slab depressurization system. The system included a 4-inch PVC pipe drilled through the slab, a quiet inline fan, and a sealed sump pit cover. Post-mitigation testing showed levels had dropped to 0.9 pCi/L. Within six months, their daughter’s coughing episodes decreased significantly. The family now tests every two years and has recommended testing to all their neighbors.

Example 2: A New Construction in Belmont Heights

A couple building a new home in Belmont Heights opted for Radon-Resistant New Construction (RRNC) during the design phase. The builder included a 4-inch gravel layer, a polyethylene vapor barrier, sealed foundation joints, and a roughed-in 3-inch PVC vent pipe. The home was tested after occupancy and registered 1.1 pCi/L. The family saved over $2,000 by avoiding a retrofit and now enjoy peace of mind knowing their home was built with safety in mind.

Example 3: A Multi-Unit Building in Downtown Long Beach

A property manager overseeing a 1970s apartment complex near the Pike Outlets received multiple tenant complaints about “stuffy air.” Testing revealed radon levels above 6 pCi/L in several ground-floor units. The manager coordinated with a mitigation specialist to install a crawlspace membrane system beneath the entire building. Each unit was tested individually, and results dropped to under 2 pCi/L. The project cost $18,000 but increased tenant retention and reduced liability exposure.

Example 4: A Home with a Well in Lakewood

A homeowner in Lakewood, just north of Long Beach, used a private well for irrigation and discovered elevated radon in water during a routine test. The water radon level was 5,200 pCi/L. After consulting with a water treatment specialist, they installed an aeration system at the point of entry. Air was released through an exhaust vent outside the home, reducing water radon to below 100 pCi/L. The system required minimal maintenance and was completed in one day.

FAQs

Is radon a serious problem in Long Beach?

Yes. While Long Beach is not considered a high-radon area statewide, localized geology and soil composition can lead to elevated levels in individual homes. The EPA recommends testing every home, regardless of location.

How much does radon mitigation cost in Long Beach?

Typical costs range from $1,200 to $2,500 for a standard sub-slab depressurization system. Factors affecting price include home size, foundation type, and complexity of installation. RRNC during construction costs $350–$750.

Can I test for radon myself?

Yes. DIY test kits are reliable and affordable. However, for real estate transactions or high readings, professional testing and mitigation are recommended.

How long does it take to reduce radon after installing a system?

Radon levels begin dropping within hours of system activation. A full reduction is typically achieved within 24–48 hours. A follow-up test should be conducted after 30 days to confirm stability.

Does having a basement increase radon risk?

Yes. Basements and crawlspaces are in direct contact with soil, making them prime entry points. However, homes without basements are not immune—radon can enter through slab foundations, utility penetrations, and sump pits.

Can plants or air purifiers reduce radon?

No. Plants have no effect on radon gas. Air purifiers with HEPA filters capture particles, not gases. Only ventilation and soil depressurization are effective.

How often should I retest for radon?

Test every two years, or after major renovations, new HVAC installations, or if you’ve modified your foundation. Retest immediately if your mitigation system fails or if you notice new cracks in the foundation.

Is radon testing required when selling a home in California?

No. California does not mandate radon disclosure. However, buyers may request testing, and sellers who disclose low radon levels may gain a competitive advantage.

Can radon affect pets?

Yes. Pets, especially dogs and cats that spend time on the floor, are exposed to the same radon levels as humans. Long-term exposure increases their risk of respiratory illness and lung cancer.

What if my neighbor’s home tested low for radon?

Radon levels vary dramatically from home to home—even adjacent houses can have vastly different readings due to soil composition, foundation cracks, and ventilation patterns. Never assume your home is safe based on a neighbor’s result.

Conclusion

Reducing radon in Long Beach homes is not just a matter of compliance—it’s a critical step in protecting the long-term health of your family. Radon is invisible, odorless, and silent, but its consequences are devastatingly real. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from testing with certified kits to hiring qualified professionals and maintaining mitigation systems—you can transform your home into a safer, healthier environment. The cost of testing is minimal compared to the cost of a lifetime of health risks. The technology to eliminate radon is proven, effective, and accessible. Whether you live in a mid-century bungalow in Rancho Dominguez or a modern townhome in Naples, the principles remain the same: test, confirm, mitigate, and maintain. Take action today. Your lungs—and those of your loved ones—will thank you for years to come.