3 Methods to Test for Radon: Know Your Number!

3 Methods to Test for Radon: Know Your Number!

 

Radon, an invisible, odorless gas, may be lurking in your home, posing a significant health risk. As the second leading cause of lung cancer, radon exposure is a concern that should not be taken lightly. Fortunately, there are three primary methods to test for radon, ensuring your home is a haven for you and your loved ones.

A. The DIY Test Kit: A Simple Start

 

A do-it-yourself (DIY) radon test or home radon test kit is an affordable and straightforward way to get an initial assessment of your home's radon levels. It uses carbon to absorb radon in the air. These kits are readily available at hardware stores and online retailers. They typically include a set of instructions, a radon sampling device, and a prepaid envelope to send the device to a lab for analysis.

Using a DIY test kit involves the following steps:

1.       Place the test kit in the lowest, most frequently used living space in your home (e.g., the basement or a ground-level room).

2.       Keep doors and windows closed for the duration of the test, typically two to seven days.

3.       Once the test period is over, seal the test kit and send it to the designated lab for analysis.

4.       Await the lab's results, which will provide you with the average radon level in your home.

While DIY test kits provide a basic understanding of your radon risk, they may not offer the precision needed for critical decisions.

 

B. Radon Detectors: Continuous Monitoring

 

Radon detectors, radon testers, also known as electronic radon monitors, offer a more detailed and continuous evaluation of your home's radon levels. These devices can provide real-time data via Bluetooth and an integrated app that you can install in your mobile phone, helping you understand radon fluctuations throughout the day and over time.

Using a radon detector involves these steps:

1.       Place the monitor in your home's lowest, most frequently used living space.

2.       Let the device run for an extended period, typically several days to a year.

3.       Periodically check the monitor's readout or connect it to your computer to access data.

4.       Analyze the data to understand your radon exposure patterns.

Radon detectors offer convenience and a more detailed picture of your home's radon levels. However, make sure your detectors are updated and calibrated for accurate results. In time, they can wear out and misinform you.

 

C. Your local NRD dealer: The Best Choice (A radon mitigation near you!)

 

When it comes to aiming for safe radon levels, hiring one of our radon dealers or experts for testing is highly recommended. Our certified radon professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to ensure accurate results and provide peace of mind.

Our professional radon testing involves the following steps:

1.       A certified technician will place one or more detectors in your home, strategically located based on your home's size and layout.

2.       The detectors will remain in place for an appropriate duration, typically 48 hours.

3.       After the testing period, the technician will collect the detectors and send them to a certified laboratory for analysis. They also analyze the home’s build and situation prior to giving a resolution.

4.       You will receive a detailed report with accurate radon levels and recommendations for mitigation if necessary.

Professional testing offers the most accurate and reliable results, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of your home's radon risk. Additionally, when selling or buying a home, many real estate transactions now require professional radon testing to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.

National Radon Defense cater to these options and are knowledgeable on what’s best for each client. Curt Drew, President of National Radon Defense, sheds light on these testing approaches, highlighting the key distinctions among them to the small detail on this video.

Given the health risks associated with radon exposure, it's essential for homeowners to consider their options and proactively test their homes. Have you taken the crucial step of knowing your number yet?