How to Check for Radon Gas
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that nearly one out of every 15 houses in the United States has elevated radon gas levels. Since it occurs naturally in soil, water, and rock when uranium breaks down, this gas can be found everywhere in the U.S. and can easily enter your home. The only way to tell if you have radon in your home is by performing a radon test. You can use either a short-term or long-term testing kit, both of which are commercially available. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Purchase a radon test kit either through the mail or from your local hardware store. Such tests are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and quick. Many states also offer free or low-cost tests. Contact your state radon office for more information about obtaining one. The EPA maintains a Website listing contact information for each state.
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Follow all instructions that come with your test kit carefully. These kits have different types of radon detectors that measure radon levels.
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Place the testing sampler, which is usually a package designed to collect radon, in the lowest level of your home such as the basement or first floor. Put it in a room that you use on a regular basis such as a den, living room, or bedroom. Do not put the kit in your kitchen or bathroom.
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Make sure the testing device is at least twenty inches above the floor in a place where it will not be disturbed. You can hang it from a light fixture or the ceiling with string. Keep it away from exterior walls, drafty locations, and areas of high heat or high humidity.
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Leave the sampler in place for as long as specified by your testing kit instructions. Testing periods for short-term tests typically run anywhere from two to 90 days while long-term tests last more than 90 days.
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Seal the testing packet as directed at the end of the testing period.
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Mail the sealed package to the lab indicated in the instructions for analysis. Send your test sample immediately to get the most accurate results before the radon begins to dissipate.
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Wait to receive the results of your test. This can take two to three weeks depending on the testing kit used.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also hire a qualified tester to conduct the test for you. Contact your state radon office for a list of these professionals in your area.
The EPA recommends that you close your windows and outside doors at least twelve hours before beginning the test. Keep these doors and windows closed as much as possible during the testing period.
Short-term tests provide results more quickly; however, long-term tests are more accurate. To get the most accurate radon reading in your home, you can perform both types of tests.
Environmental factors such as weather or sunlight can affect the accuracy of your testing instrument. Do not test during severe storms or place the detector where direct sunlight can reach it.
