Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon gas. The EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. Radon testing is simple, affordable, and can be done by anyone. If you are selling or purchasing a home, testing must be performed by a certified testing company. Radon gas in the air is measured in pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air). You can purchase radon test kits in many hardware stores, retail outlets, or by mail order.
Stay safe with radon testing!
If you are exposed to elevated radon levels, you won’t suffer from radon side effects right away. It is necessary to complete testing in order to recognize a problem. Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas, but it is not difficult to find out if you are at risk. Home radon testing requires only a few minutes of your time. There are two types of radon test kits; short-term and long-term. Short-term tests require 2 to 90 days, while long-term tests remain in the home for more than 90 days. Start with a short-term test. The radon gas detector is most commonly used for short-term testing include charcoal canisters, alpha track, electret ion chamber, continuous monitors, and charcoal liquid scintillation.
How to test for radon gas and obtain acceptable, safe radon levels
Follow the instructions included with the kit. Test the lowest level of the house that can be occupied. Close windows and outside doors at least twelve hours before beginning the test, and make every effort to keep them closed for the duration of the test. While HVAC systems that recirculate air may be operated, do not utilize systems that introduce outside air into the home. Fans that are components of a radon reduction system or small exhaust fans can be operated. Avoid testing during times of severe weather, such as storms or high winds. Locate the test where it will not be disturbed, at least 20 inches above the floor, and away from exterior walls, drafts, severe heat, or high humidity. Once the test is completed according to directions, reseal the package and send it to the specified lab for analysis.
Consult with our professional team following your radon testing and we’ll help determine the best radon reduction solution for you!
A radon level of 4 or higher requires proactive measures. Be aware that there is no safe radon level. Even if the level falls between 2 and 4, you may want to take action. If you require immediate results, perform a second short-term test. The higher the results of your first short-term test, the more necessary it is to follow up with a second short-term test. If the results of the first short-term test is less conclusive, use a long-term test. Radon levels in your home can change. They vary from day to day. The best way to know the year-round average is with a long-term test. Alpha track and electret detectors are used for long-term testing and remain in the home for more than 90 days.
If you extend your living space to lower levels of the home, such as a basement, you should always perform home radon testing. If tests results are below a level 4, it is a good idea to retest in the future. There are no safe levels of radon gas. Exposure to any amount increases your risk of lung cancer. If you are faced with any concerns over radon gas, contact the experts from Radon Technology & Environmental. We specialize in straightforward radon system installation and removal solutions to the most difficult challenges. After 25 years in radon mitigation industry, we have the experience, resources, and technical expertise to deliver lasting results. We offer free estimates & match system color to your house. During initial consultation, we’ll explain everything thoroughly, answer any questions you may have, and eliminate unpleasant surprises, such as hidden costs, to ensure a rewarding experience from start to finish. For complete protection of homes throughout Collegeville, King of Prussia, West Pittston, Exeter, Coatesville, Wilkes-Barre, Yardley, Mountain Top, Lansdale, Plymouth Meeting, Berwyn, Harleysville, Glenside & Newtown, PA, count on Radon Technology & Environmental to create a safe, healthy environment for you and your family.