Radon#
Radon is a class 'A' carcinogen and long-term exposure to elevated levels has been linked to radon-induced lung cancer. About half of all home tested in Fort Collins have radon levels above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L. Learn more below about Radon or visit the Radon resources library and Radon FAQ.
Testing For Radon#
Short-Term Test Kit
The City of Fort Collins sells discounted short-term ($6) and long-term ($20) radon test kits at: Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr.
Fort Collins residents can also receive a free test kit by participating in the Healthy Homes program. Find out more at fcgov.com/healthyhomes.
If you reside outside the City limits you can order a radon test kit from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
Radon test kits are very time-sensitive and must be mailed immediately after the test kit is sealed up. Failure to follow the instructions can cause the lab to invalidate the results. Be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions that come with the test kit. Watch this short how-to video to ensure you are conducting your test correctly: Watch in English or en Español
Radon Mitigation System
The EPA recommends mitigating radon levels in homes that are confirmed to be 4 pCi/L or higher. Radon levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk and can usually be reduced further. View the EPA's Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction for more information.
The CDPHE LIRMA program can provide financial assistance to individuals with low-income status for radon mitigation. Homeowners must be a Colorado resident, occupy the property as their primary residence and qualify as a low income household.
The National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) maintains a list of certified radon professionals in Colorado that we recommend consulting on any radon mitigation project.
Radon-Induced Lung Cancer
Radon is a gas that when inhaled, decomposes into radioactive decay products that cause damage to your lungs and can lead to cancer. Radon is a class 'A' carcinogen meaning that there is adequate human data to indicate that it causes cancer in people.
Your chances of getting radon-induced lung cancer depends on how much radon is in your home, the amount of time you are exposed to it, and whether you are a smoker. Long-term radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. There were an estimated 21,000 deaths in the U.S last year due to radon-induced lung cancer.
Radon in the Periodic Table of Elements
Radon is an invisible, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas created during the natural decay of uranium in the soil. Radon is everywhere, and Colorado has higher concentrations than other regions.
Radon gas is drawn into homes through cracks and openings in basements, crawl spaces and slabs. Radon levels vary from house to house and are dependent on a number of factors including the age, quality and upkeep of the home.
Radon Fan Rebate#
Efficiency Works recently launched an incentive to help cover the cost of installing a high efficiency radon fan. Eligible Fort Collins Utilities customers can receive $75 for new or existing active mitigation systems.
Click here for a list of available rebate offers through Efficiency Works.
More Information#
Radon Resources
Explore additional resources about radon health risks, testing, mitigation, and more.