Radon is a silent threat that could be lurking in your home without you even knowing it. This radioactive gas is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, but it can pose serious health risks. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., right after smoking. The good news? Testing your home for radon is simple, and if there’s an issue, it can be fixed. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about radon testing and how to keep your family safe.
What Is Radon and Why Should You Care?
Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, or even through well water. Once inside, it can build up to dangerous levels. The scary part? You won’t know it’s there unless you test for it.
The EPA says homes with radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) need immediate attention. But even lower levels (between 2-4 pCi/L) can still pose risks over time. Testing is the only way to know if your home is safe.
Choose the Right Radon Test
There are two main types of radon tests: short-term and long-term.
- Short-Term Tests: These are quick and easy. They measure radon levels over 2 to 7 days. You’ll get results fast, which makes them great for real estate transactions or an initial check.
- Long-Term Tests: These tests run for 90 days or more. They give a more accurate picture of your home’s average radon levels because they account for seasonal changes.
If you’ve never tested your home before, starting with a short-term test is a good idea. If the results are high, follow up with a long-term test or call in a professional.
Set Up the Test Properly
Now that you’ve chosen your test kit, it’s time to set it up. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pick the Right Spot: Place the test in the lowest level of your home where people spend time—like a basement or ground floor. Avoid kitchens, bathrooms, or areas with drafts like near windows or vents.
- Follow Closed-House Conditions: For accurate results, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible for at least 12 hours before starting the test and during the testing period.
- Position the Device Correctly: Place the test kit at least 2-6 feet above the floor and away from walls or furniture that could block airflow.
- Let It Work: Leave the test undisturbed for the recommended time (check your kit instructions). Don’t move it or touch it while it’s collecting data.
Send Your Test for Analysis
Once the testing period is over, carefully follow the instructions to seal up your test kit. Most kits include pre-paid shipping envelopes, so you can send them directly to a certified lab for analysis. Within a few days or weeks (depending on the lab), you’ll get your results.
Understand Your Results
When you receive your results, here’s what they mean:
- Below 2 pCi/L: Great news! Your home has low radon levels.
- Between 2-4 pCi/L: This is a moderate level. You might want to consider mitigation to reduce long-term risks.
- Above 4 pCi/L: Action is needed right away! High radon levels can be dangerous, so it’s time to address the problem.
If your results are high, don’t panic—radon issues can be fixed.
Fixing High Radon Levels
If your home has elevated radon levels, you’ll need a mitigation system to bring them down. Here are some common solutions:
- Soil Suction Systems: These systems use pipes and fans to pull radon gas from beneath your home and vent it safely outside.
- Sealing Cracks: While this won’t solve the problem alone, sealing cracks in floors and walls can help reduce radon entry points.
- Improving Ventilation: Increasing airflow in crawl spaces or basements can dilute radon concentrations.
It’s best to hire certified professionals who specialize in radon mitigation to ensure everything is done correctly.
Retest Regularly
Even after installing a mitigation system, regular testing is important. Retest every two years to make sure levels stay low. Also, retest after major renovations or changes to your home’s structure—these can affect how radon enters your house.
Stay Safe with Professional Help
Testing for radon might seem like just another chore on your list, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family’s health. It’s quick, affordable, and gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe.
Protect Your Home with ECOS Today!
Worried about radon lurking in your home? You’re not alone. Radon, an invisible and odorless gas, can pose serious health risks. But here’s the good news: ECOS has your back!
With our certified radon testing and mitigation services, you can ensure the air your family breathes is safe and clean. Our experts use advanced technology to detect radon levels and implement effective solutions tailored to your home. Whether you need testing, mitigation, or peace of mind, we’ve got it covered.
Don’t let radon compromise your safety. Act now! Protecting your home has never been easier. Simply visit our website or give us a call to schedule a quick and reliable inspection.
Your family deserves a safe, healthy environment. Trust ECOS to make it happen—because your peace of mind is our top priority. Get started today! Visit ECOS today to schedule an inspection!