How to Use a Radon Test

Radon gas may be present in your neighborhood.

Radon is a chemical element with the symbol Rn on the periodic table of elements. Radon is an odorless and colorless gas that has been linked to more than 20,000 deaths per year. It is radioactive and has been shown to lead to lung cancer. If you suspect there may be radon in your home, use a radon test kit to know for sure. Radon test kits work by exposing charcoal capsules to the air in your home. You can mail the exposed capsule to a laboratory to obtain the results.

Instructions

1. Close all doors and windows in your home for at least 12 hours prior to taking the radon test.

2. Place the radon test kit in the lowest level of your home. If your home does not have multiple floors, place the radon test in your bedroom.

3. Record the temperature and humidity levels in the room. The radon test kit will have humidity and temperature color-coded gauges to allow you to record this information.

4. Remove the lid of the vial to expose the charcoal capsule. Allow the radon kit to sit undisturbed for 48 to 96 hours.

5. Replace the lid covering the charcoal capsule and make sure it is securely sealed.

6. Complete the paperwork that comes with your radon test kit. Include the humidity and temperature information and make sure you record the dates you used the test kit.

7. Mail the test back to the laboratory using the address that comes with the testing kit. You will receive the results via mail or email within eight days.

References

• Radon Testing Labs: Test Kit Instructions
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Radon Health Risks