Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can silently seep into homes through cracks and foundations. Since it has no smell, taste, or color, many homeowners remain unaware of its presence until it’s too late. The only way to determine whether your home has high levels of radon is through a home radon test.
What Is Radon and Why the Concern?
Radon usually forms when there is uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It enters your home through openings in the foundation, basement, or crawl space. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that long-term exposure to high radon levels significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Radon ranks as the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
Because of these risks, taking a proactive approach through a home radon test becomes not only wise but necessary.
When Should You Test for Radon?
You should perform a home radon test under the following circumstances:
- If your home has never been tested.
- When buying or selling a property.
- After renovations, especially in basements or lower-level living spaces.
- When making lifestyle changes that involve spending more time in lower parts of the house.
Each of these situations can affect radon levels, so testing ensures your safety.
Different Types of Home Radon Tests
There are two primary types of home radon test kits: short-term and long-term.
Short-Term Radon Tests
Short-term tests measure radon levels for 2 to 7 days or, in some cases, up to 90 days. These kits offer a quick way to assess the radon concentration and are ideal for initial screenings or real estate transactions.
Long-Term Radon Tests
Long-term tests last more than 90 days. These provide a more accurate picture of your home’s average radon levels throughout the year. Long-term results are especially helpful if the short-term test results fall between 2 and 4 pCi/L.
Both types of tests are available at local health departments, online retailers, or hardware stores. Some states even offer free or discounted test kits.
How to Use a Home Radon Test Kit
Conducting a home radon test is easy if you follow the instructions closely:
- Place the test kit in the lowest level of your home that is regularly used, such as the basement.
- Ensure the kit is at least 20 inches above the floor and away from windows, exterior walls, and high-humidity areas.
- Leave the kit in the selected place for the recommended duration.
- Once the test is complete, it goes to the specified lab for analysis.
Maintaining closed-house conditions—keeping windows and exterior doors closed—is crucial during testing for accurate results.
Interpreting Your Test Results
Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air. Here’s how to interpret the results:
- Less than 2 pCi/L:
No action is needed, but retest every 2-5 years.
- Between 2 and 4 pCi/L:
Consider installing a radon mitigation system.
- 4 pCi/L or higher:
Immediate mitigation is strongly recommended.
After mitigation, you should retest to confirm that radon levels have dropped to a safe range.
What Happens During Radon Mitigation?
If your home radon test reveals elevated levels, mitigation becomes the next step. A typical radon mitigation system includes:
- A vent pipe system that draws radon from beneath your home and vents it outdoors.
- An exhaust fan, which creates low pressure under the foundation to prevent radon from entering the house.
- Seal cracks and openings in the foundation to enhance system efficiency.
Most mitigation systems are non-invasive, cost-effective, and highly reliable. You can also monitor the system using digital radon detectors for added peace of mind.
Why Professional Testing Might Be the Better Option
While DIY kits are convenient and budget-friendly, professional radon testers offer precise readings with minimal margin for error. This is especially important during real estate transactions or after renovations. Licensed professionals also help interpret the results and recommend effective mitigation strategies.
Conclusion
Radon is an invisible but serious threat. A simple home radon test can protect your family’s health and offer peace of mind. Whether you’re living in an older property or building a new one, regular radon testing ensures your environment stays safe. Don’t wait for symptoms to show—take control of your indoor air quality today.
To schedule a professional home radon test or learn more about reliable radon mitigation services and other related services, visit DSM Radon.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I perform a home radon test?
It’s recommended to test your home every 2 to 5 years. Also, test before or after major renovations or if your living situation changes, such as spending more time in a basement.
2. Can I do a radon test myself?
Yes, you can use a DIY radon test kit. However, for real estate transactions or more accurate results, hiring a licensed professional is recommended.
3. What should I do if my radon level is just above 2 pCi/L?
While not immediately hazardous, radon levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration for a mitigation system, especially if someone in the home is high-risk.
4. Are radon levels higher in winter?
Yes, radon levels tend to be higher during colder months because homes tend to be more sealed, trapping the gas insid,e which makes winter an ideal time for accurate testing.