You’ve probably heard the word radon before, but do you know what it actually is?
It’s an invisible, odorless gas that can sneak into your home without you ever noticing. And here’s the scary part, it’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Radon can get trapped inside our homes and build up to unhealthy levels, but you’d never know it unless you tested for it. The good news? Testing is simple, affordable, and gives you peace of mind.
Let’s break it all down…
What Exactly Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It seeps up through the ground and can enter your home through small cracks, gaps, or even your well water.
According to the EPA, about 1 in 15 homes in the U.S. has a radon level considered too high (4 pCi/L or more). And here’s the kicker, any home can have a problem, whether it’s old or new, with or without a basement.
Even if your home is in a “low-radon” area, it’s still worth testing. Two houses right next to each other can have completely different radon levels.
You can check your local radon levels through your state’s radon office or at county-radon.info.
How to Test for Radon
Testing for radon is super simple, and you can do it yourself or hire a professional.
If you’re DIY-ing it, focus on the lowest livable area of your home (basement or first floor).
There are two main types of tests:
Passive tests:
These don’t need power and are left out for a set amount of time before being sent to a lab. Examples include charcoal canisters and alpha-track detectors. They’re inexpensive and easy to use.
Active tests:
These are powered devices that continuously measure radon levels and record data. They’re more advanced (and more expensive), but they give you a detailed look at radon fluctuations.
- Short-term tests: 2-90 days, great if you’re testing quickly (like during a home sale).
- Long-term tests: 90+ days, provide a more accurate yearly average.
No matter which test you use, follow the instructions carefully and minimize disturbances during the testing period to ensure accurate results.
What If Your Home Has High Radon Levels?
Don’t panic, radon problems are fixable!
The EPA recommends taking action if your home’s levels are 2-4 pCi/L or higher. The average home sits around 1.3 pCi/L, so anything above that deserves attention.
Fixes are often easier and less expensive than people think. Common solutions include:
- Sealing foundation cracks
- Installing a venting system (pipes and fans) to redirect radon outside
Radon mitigation contractors can evaluate your home and recommend the right system.
Thinking About Renovating? Test First!
If you’re planning a renovation, especially in a basement or lower-level space, test your home for radon before starting. It’s also a good idea to re-test afterward since changes to your home can affect air movement and radon levels.
And here’s a pro tip: it’s often cheaper to install a radon-reduction system during renovations than after the fact.
Final Thoughts
Radon might be invisible, but the risks are very real. Testing your home gives you peace of mind, and could literally save your life.
If you’re curious about radon testing or thinking about selling your home soon, I’m happy to connect you with local testing professionals or resources.
Learn more here:
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