Yes, most radon mitigation systems are designed to run continuously so that radon gas is never given the chance to accumulate in your home. Radon levels fluctuate constantly due to changes in soil pressure and seasonal weather, so turning the system off even temporarily could allow levels to rise fairly quickly.

The most common type of radon mitigation system for homes in the Twin Cities metro is an active sub-slab depressurization system. This system uses a small fan that runs 24/7 to pull radon gas from beneath your home and vent it safely outside. Most other forms of radon mitigation systems, such as sub-membrane depressurization and drain tile depressurization, run continuously as well. However, passive vent stacks, which are sometimes installed in new construction, rely on natural airflow instead of a fan.

Some Twin Cities homeowners may worry that this continuous operation will create exorbitant energy bills but the good news is that sub-slab depressurization systems are designed to be efficient. They operate with low-energy fans that only use about as much electricity as a lightbulb. The fan for a radon mitigation system typically only needs to be replaced every 5-10 years.