Radon testing is an important step in understanding the air quality inside a home. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, which means the only way to know if radon is present is through testing.
The most common place radon enters a home is through the ground beneath it. Cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, sump pumps, and crawl spaces can all allow radon gas to seep indoors. Because radon levels can vary from house to house—even between neighboring homes—testing is recommended for all homes, regardless of age or location.
There are two main types of radon tests: short-term and long-term. Short-term tests typically last between 2 and 7 days and provide a quick snapshot of radon levels. These are often used during real estate transactions or as an initial screening. Long-term tests, which last 90 days or more, give a more accurate picture of a home’s average radon exposure over time.
Radon tests are usually placed in the lowest livable level of the home, such as a basement or first floor. For best results, windows and doors should be kept closed as much as possible during testing.
If test results show radon levels at or above 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), the EPA recommends taking action. Fortunately, radon mitigation systems are effective and can significantly reduce indoor radon levels, helping keep a home safer and healthier.
Recent Comments