Alaska has elevated radon risk due to its geology. Radon is colorless, odorless, and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. Testing is the only way to know if your home is safe.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It has no color, no odor, and no taste — you cannot detect it without testing equipment. Radon seeps up through the ground and can accumulate inside buildings, where it becomes trapped, especially in tightly sealed structures.
When inhaled, radon decay products attach to the lining of the lungs and emit radiation that can damage DNA over time, leading to lung cancer. The U.S. EPA estimates that radon causes approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States — making it the second leading cause after cigarette smoking.
The EPA recommends taking action when radon levels in a home exceed 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), and considers levels between 2–4 pCi/L worth addressing as well. There is no completely "safe" level of radon exposure.
The EPA estimates radon causes approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S. — the leading environmental cause of cancer death.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking. For non-smokers, it is the single leading cause of lung cancer.
The EPA recommends mitigation when indoor radon levels exceed 4 picocuries per liter. Alaska homes regularly test above this threshold.
Important: Alaska's geology creates above-average radon risk statewide. The combination of glacially deposited uranium-bearing soils, underlying bedrock formations, and the state's tightly sealed home construction makes radon a serious concern for Southcentral Alaska homeowners. The only way to know your home's radon level is to test it.
Alaska's bedrock contains uranium and radium deposits that decay into radon gas. The Chugach Mountains, Talkeetna range, and Matanuska-Susitna Valley all have documented elevated radon potential from underlying geology.
Glacial action distributed uranium-bearing materials across Southcentral Alaska. Glacially derived soils in the Anchorage bowl, Eagle River, and Mat-Su Valley areas can be radon sources even where bedrock isn't immediately beneath the foundation.
Alaska's energy-efficient homes are extraordinarily tight. While radon is present everywhere, its indoor concentration depends heavily on how well it can escape. In sealed Alaska homes, radon accumulates rather than dispersing — compounding the geological risk.
The EPA divides the U.S. into three radon risk zones. Many Alaska counties fall in Zone 1 or Zone 2 — the highest risk categories — though testing remains important regardless of zone.
Predicted average indoor levels above 4 pCi/L. Testing and mitigation highly recommended. Several Alaska boroughs fall in this zone.
Predicted indoor levels between 2–4 pCi/L. Testing recommended — individual homes can vary significantly from the zone average.
Predicted indoor levels below 2 pCi/L. Testing still recommended — individual homes in Zone 3 can exceed 4 pCi/L based on local geology and construction.
Radon testing is straightforward. There are two main methods, and the right choice depends on your situation.
Short-term tests use charcoal canisters or electret ion chambers placed in the lowest livable area of your home for 2–7 days, then sent to an accredited lab. Results typically arrive within a week. Best for initial screening, real estate transactions, or when you need results quickly.
Long-term tests use alpha track detectors that remain in place for 90 days to a year. Because radon levels fluctuate with seasons, weather, and ventilation patterns, long-term tests provide a more accurate picture of your actual annual exposure. The gold standard for definitive assessment.
DIY radon test kits are available at hardware stores and produce reliable results when used correctly. Professional testing by a certified radon measurement professional ensures proper placement, chain-of-custody, and interpretation — particularly important for real estate transactions or mitigation decisions.
Elevated radon is a solvable problem. Radon mitigation is well-established and highly effective — most systems reduce indoor radon by 50–99%.
If a short-term test shows elevated levels, confirm with a second short-term test or a long-term test before investing in mitigation.
Sub-slab depressurization (SSD) is the most common and effective mitigation method — a pipe and fan system that draws radon from beneath the foundation and vents it outside.
After mitigation is installed, test again to verify that levels have dropped to below 4 pCi/L — and ideally below 2 pCi/L. Ongoing monitoring ensures the system continues to perform.
Learn about how we help Anchorage homeowners understand and improve their indoor air quality — VOCs, PM2.5, CO₂, humidity, and more.
Learn about all the pollutants that affect Alaska homes — not just radon. A comprehensive introduction to IAQ for Anchorage homeowners.
Mat-Su Valley homeowners face particular radon risk. Learn about our Wasilla and Mat-Su IAQ services and IAQ audit offer.
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For radon testing, contact a certified radon professional or visit epa.gov/radon. The EPA and Alaska DEC can help you find a certified radon measurement and mitigation professional in your area.
Aurora Air Quality focuses on VOC, PM2.5, CO₂, and humidity testing for Anchorage homes.