How To Test Your Home For Radon
Radon is an odorless gas that will increase the risk of lung cancer and cause damage to human tissue. Unfortunately, radon levels are on the rise in every state. One of the largest challenges of radon mitigation is even knowing that radon exists. The good news is that you can order a radon testing kit in order to perform a test yourself. If you live in an area that has a high amount of radon, you may even qualify for a free kit. You will simply need to understand how to use one.
Deciding Who Will Perform The Test
If you rent your home, ask your landlord to have your home tested. Otherwise, you can either perform the test yourself or hire a professional. Make sure to purchase the right kit. Short-term radon testing kits are designed for homeowners, while long-term radon kits are designed for professionals.
Retesting Your Home
If your radon is 4 or higher, test your home again in a few days. Radon levels are subject to change. If you are concerned about the cost of the radon test kit, purchase a cheaper kit first, perform a test, and use a better, more expensive kit if the cheaper kit indicates that there is something to be concerned of.
Performing The Test
Passive radon tests use an absorbent medium that is left in the home for as long as seven days. The radon is usually placed in the lowest level of your home. For the entire length of the test, the kit should not be disturbed. Avoid placing the radon kit in the kitchen or bathroom because the humidity can disrupt the test. Avoid opening doors or windows. The room should have the same level of ventilation as what it normally has.
Activating The Kit
Remove the top of the radon kit and expose it to air for when it will be running the test. Sometimes, the kit will come with scintillation vials. They will need to be placed a certain distance apart based on the manufacturer's instructions.
Sending The Kit To The Laboratory
Once the test is completed, it needs to be sealed and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will be able to determine whether there are dangerous levels of radon in your home. Many laboratories will allow you to check the results online as well as sending the results by mail. If you have high levels of radon, you may need to contact a radon mitigation specialist.