Home Radon Testing
Radon Testing Flowchart
The quickest way to test for radon presence in the home is with short-term tests. Short-term tests remain in the home for two to 90 days, depending on the device. The most commonly used short-term detectors include charcoal canisters, alpha track detectors, electret ion chambers, continuous monitors, and charcoal liquid scintillation detectors. Because radon levels tend to vary from day to day and season to season, a short-term test is less likely than a long-term test show year-round average radon levels.
Follow the instructions that come with the test kit. If performing a short-term test, close all windows and outside doors and keep them closed as much as possible during the test. Heating and air-conditioning system fans that re-circulate air may be operated. Do not operate fans or other machines which bring in air from outside. Fans that are part of a radon-reduction system or small exhaust fans operating only for short periods of time may run during the test. In a short-term test lasting just two or three days, be sure to close windows and outside doors at least 12 hours before beginning the test,. Do not conduct short-term tests during severe storms or periods of unusually high winds. The test kit should be placed in the lowest lived-in level of the home (for example, the basement if it is frequently used, otherwise the first floor). It should be put in a room that is used regularly (like a living room, playroom, den or bedroom) but not a kitchen or bathroom. Place the kit at least 20 inches above the floor in a location where it won't be disturbed - away from drafts, high heat, high humidity, and exterior walls. Leave the kit in place for as long as the package says. Once the test is finished, reseal the package and send it immediately to the lab specified on the package for analysis. Test results will arrive within a few weeks.
(See Test Kit Instructions for details)
RATIONALE
The EPA estimates that radon gas contributes to 15,000 to 22,000 deaths annually in the U.S. Smokers are at an increased risk. Radon testing is inexpensive and can easily save lives
BENEFIT
- Home radon testing makes residents aware of the health dangers in their home
- If high levels are found, the situation can be easily mitigated by a certified professional, significantly reducing the risk of lung cancer in the home
ACTION AGENT(S)
- State radon program
- Local department of health
COST
Radon test kits can be obtained for around $20 at local hardware and home improvement stores. State radon programs can likely order test kits in bulk at a greatly reduced rate directly from the manufacturer.
The process of treating air to control its temperature, humidity, cleanliness, and distribution.
