If you think your home is full of radon, it may be time to have a radon test done. Radon is a naturally occurring gas in soil, rocks, and rock formations. Exposure to it can cause serious health problems. This gas is a contributing factor to environmental radioactivity. It has been linked to several health problems, including cancer. It is essential for people to know their radon levels and mitigate the risks.
What is Radon and How to Protect Yourself From Radon
To determine the radon levels in your home, choose a long-term radon test. These tests measure the radon levels in a building over 90 days, which is more accurate in reflecting your home’s average level year-round. To conduct these tests, place a small measuring device in the basement or lowest level of your home. In multi-unit buildings, you can test the lowest level of each unit.
You can perform a radon test yourself, or hire a professional. Homeowners can purchase kits at hardware stores. DIY kits, however, require the homeowner to place a sample in the lowest level of their home for 48 hours and return it to a laboratory for analysis. The professional radon test is recommended, but if you’re unsure about the accuracy of the test, a short-term radon test may be all that you need.
You can also perform a short-term test to determine if radon levels are low enough or high enough. In this case, the test must be at least four pCi/L. If the result is between two and four pCi/L, you’ll need to install a mitigation system. If the test results are within 2 pCi/L, you’ll need a follow-up test every two to five years.