What AmeriServ Radon Mitigation Does

AmeriServ Radon Mitigation is a radon removal service that installs systems to reduce radon gas levels in homes. The company uses sub-slab depressurization — the most common method — which pulls radon from beneath your foundation and vents it safely above your roof. AmeriServ operates in multiple states and handles both the system design and installation.

If you've had radon testing done and your results came back above 2 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), the EPA action level, a mitigation system is the standard next step. AmeriServ's role is to assess your home's structure, design a system suited to your foundation type, and install the equipment that will continuously reduce radon levels.

Key Takeaways

  • AmeriServ installs sub-slab depressurization systems, which draw radon from under your foundation and vent it outside above roof level.
  • The company will inspect your home, design a system based on your foundation and soil conditions, and handle the full installation.
  • Installation typically takes one to three days depending on your home's layout and foundation type.
  • Most systems include a manometer or digital monitor so you can verify the system is working after installation.
  • After installation, you should have follow-up radon testing done to confirm the system reduced your levels below 2 pCi/L.

How to Request an Inspection and Quote

Contact AmeriServ directly through their website or phone line to schedule an initial inspection. During this visit, a technician will examine your foundation type (slab, crawlspace, or basement), soil composition, and the layout of your home to understand where radon is entering and how to route the mitigation system.

The inspection is typically free or low-cost, and the technician will provide a written quote for the system design and installation. This quote should specify the type of system, the materials used, the labor cost, and any warranty terms. Ask the technician to explain why they're recommending a particular system design — different homes need different approaches based on foundation and soil conditions.

What Happens During Installation

Once you approve the quote, AmeriServ will schedule the installation. For a sub-slab system, technicians drill through your foundation slab (usually in a basement or crawlspace), install a PVC pipe that runs down to the soil below, and connect it to a radon fan mounted either in your attic or on an exterior wall. The pipe then extends above your roofline to vent radon safely outdoors.

Installation usually takes one to three days. The work is noisy and involves drilling, so plan accordingly. Technicians will seal the entry point after the pipe is installed to prevent soil gases from entering your home through the hole. They'll also install a manometer (a straightforward gauge) or digital monitor on the system so you can see at a glance whether the fan is running and the system is working.

After installation, ask the technician to walk you through how to check the monitor, what normal readings look like, and what to do if the system stops working or the monitor shows a problem.

System Maintenance and Monitoring

A radon mitigation system requires minimal maintenance, but it does need to run continuously. Check your manometer or digital display regularly — at least monthly — to confirm the system is operating. Most systems have a straightforward on/off switch, but they should stay on all the time.

The radon fan itself typically lasts 5 to 10 years before it may need replacement. AmeriServ or other mitigation companies can replace the fan if it fails. Some systems include a warranty on parts and labor for a set period (often 5 to 10 years); check your paperwork to know what's covered.

If your monitor shows the system is not working — for example, if the gauge reads zero or shows no pressure difference — contact AmeriServ or a local mitigation contractor right away. A blocked pipe, failed fan, or electrical issue can prevent the system from reducing radon.

Post-Installation Radon Testing

After the system is installed and has been running for at least 24 hours, you should have follow-up radon testing done to confirm the mitigation worked. This is not done by AmeriServ; you'll hire an independent radon testing company or your state's certified radon measurement professional to test your home again.

The goal is to see your radon level drop below 2 pCi/L. If it does, your system is working as intended. If it remains above 2 pCi/L, contact AmeriServ to discuss adjustments — sometimes the system design needs tweaking, or there may be additional radon entry points that require a second system or additional sealing work.

Cost and Warranty Information

The cost of a radon mitigation system varies based on your home's size, foundation type, and local labor rates. A typical sub-slab depressurization system ranges from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, but exact pricing depends on your specific situation. AmeriServ will provide a detailed quote during the inspection phase.

Many systems come with a warranty on parts and labor. Read your warranty paperwork carefully to understand what is covered, how long coverage lasts, and what you need to do to maintain the warranty (for example, some require annual inspections). If you sell your home, ask AmeriServ whether the warranty transfers to the new owner.

When to Contact AmeriServ Again

Reach out to AmeriServ if your manometer or digital monitor shows the system is not working, if you notice unusual sounds or vibrations from the fan, or if your follow-up radon test shows levels are still too high. You should also contact them if you're planning renovations that might affect the system — for example, if you're finishing a basement or adding an addition, the mitigation system may need to be relocated or redesigned.

If AmeriServ is not available in your area or you need a second opinion, other state-certified radon mitigation contractors can inspect your existing system and make recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a radon mitigation system last?

The radon fan typically lasts 5 to 10 years before it may need replacement. The PVC piping and other components often last much longer. AmeriServ can replace a failed fan or repair damaged pipes. Check your warranty to see what's covered.

Will a radon system make my electric bill go up?

Yes, but usually by a small amount. A radon fan runs continuously and uses roughly as much electricity as a small light bulb — typically $10 to $30 per year depending on local electricity rates. This is a minor cost compared to the health benefit of reducing radon exposure.

Can I install a radon system myself?

It's technically possible for a skilled homeowner, but most people hire a professional. The work involves drilling through your foundation, running PVC pipe, installing a fan, and ensuring proper venting — mistakes can reduce effectiveness or damage your home. AmeriServ and other licensed contractors have the tools and experience to do it correctly.

What if my radon level is still high after the system is installed?

Contact AmeriServ to discuss adjustments. Sometimes the system design needs tweaking, or your home may have multiple radon entry points that require additional sealing or a second system. Your follow-up radon test results will guide the next steps.

Do I need to do anything to maintain the system?

Check your manometer or digital monitor monthly to confirm the system is running. Keep the outdoor vent pipe clear of snow, leaves, or debris. Beyond that, the system requires little maintenance until the fan eventually needs replacement after several years.