How to Test For Radon in Your Home

Radon is a cancer causing agent that is found in soils everywhere. It is odorless and invisible so it's nearly impossible to detect without testing for it. Radon is relatively easy to test for and kits are readily available at reasonable prices. Follow these steps to ensuring your family is safe from radon exposure.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. DETERMINE WHAT YOU NEED
   
   Are you willing to do the test yourself or would you prefer a professional come in to set it up? Ask yourself this question before going any further. A professional can come in and set up the testing supplies but the cost may be significantly hiher than if you do it yourself. If you do choose to do it yourself you can purchase a test kit online or by contacting your local health department.

2. LENGTH OF TEST
   
   Determine what you need or want in terms of the duration of the test. Short term tests range from 3 days to 90 days. Short term tests are less accurate because radon levels can fluctuate during different weather patterns. Long term tests range from 90 to 180 days or even longer. These tests take into account the changing weather and the radon levels associated with those changes.

3. HIRING PROFESSIONALLY
   
   There are numerous regional companies that test for radon, do a search on the internet for local companies testing for radon. Be sure to confirm that they use EPA approved test materials.

4. DOING IT YOURSELF
   
   Go online and search for radon test kits. There are hundreds of companies specializing in these kits so be sure to check that they meet a few basic requirements. Like hiring a professional, you want to make sure that the test kit is approved by the EPA. Also consider whether the results are calculated in your own home in the kit or if you send them to a lab for processing. Sending your results to a lab may give you even greater accuracy given the sensitivity of the test, so consider taking the extra step.

5. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS
   
   Most radon test kits follow similar guidelines as far as actually performing the tests. You will be placing radon sensitive materials in various parts of your home - closets, basements, halls, by windows, etc. The material will stay in place for a given amount of time, based on your particular test. Once the time has elapsed you will send the materials back to the laboratory or finish the test yourself to get your results.

6. Once you get your results you should know whether or not your home is safe from dangerous levels of radon. If your home does have high radon levels, you can take appropriate steps to removing it. Improved ventilation is the number one way to reducing radon levels in your home. Ventilation of a home should only be done by certified contractors. To find a list of these contractors you can click on the EPA link located in the resources section at the bottom of this article.

Tips & Warnings

• Always speak with a certified professional if you have any questions about the safety of your home and your family with regard to radon or other dangerous gases.

Resources

• How to Detect Radon Emissions in Granite Counters
• EPA Website

[Kallicat]

on 1/9/2009 Very good information.