Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally and is formed through the breakdown of elements such as uranium in soil, rocks, and water sources. While radon dissipates harmlessly outdoors, it can accumulate to dangerous levels inside homes, leading to serious health risks. Radon, the second primary contributor to lung cancer in the U.S., accounts for more than 20,000 fatalities each year. To safeguard your health, it is crucial to conduct radon testing.
One in 15 homes in the U.S. has elevated radon levels, yet you won’t detect it by sight, smell, or taste. Testing is the only way to identify if your home exceeds the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) action level of 4.0 pCi/L, which requires mitigation. But is a DIY radon test sufficient, or is professional testing a better option? Let’s explore the differences to help you decide.
Understanding Radon Testing Methods
There are two main types of radon tests: passive and active. Passive tests are divided into charcoal, alpha track, and electret tests. DIY radon test kits typically use charcoal or alpha track methods, while professionals conduct active tests and electret methods exclusively. Choosing between these options depends on your testing purpose and the accuracy required.
When to Choose a DIY Radon Test Kit
A DIY radon test kit is an affordable and convenient way to check if radon might be an issue in your home. Priced around $40 and available at most hardware stores, these kits are ideal for homeowners seeking a preliminary assessment. However, it’s important to note that DIY tests are less accurate than professional testing due to the potential for human error during setup and environmental factors affecting results.
Types of DIY Radon Tests
Most DIY kits use either charcoal or alpha track methods:
Charcoal Tests
These absorb radon from the air during a specified period. In the lab, the radon particles are measured to determine the concentration.
Alpha Track Tests
A plastic film records radon’s alpha particles, and these marks are analyzed in the lab to calculate radon levels.
Steps for Conducting a DIY Radon Test
Follow the instructions in your kit carefully for accurate results. Generally, the process involves:
- Closing all doors and windows for 12 hours before and during the test.
- Placing the testing device in the lowest level of living space, such as a frequently used basement or first floor.
- Leaving the device undisturbed for 48 to 96 hours, depending on the test type.
- Sending the device to the lab for analysis, with results returned promptly.
The Case for Professional Radon Testing
Professional radon testing is the gold standard for accuracy and reliability. It is essential in real estate transactions, where precise results are required. Professional tests are conducted by trained and certified experts using advanced equipment and techniques to provide detailed and accurate radon readings.
Types of Professional Radon Tests
Professionals use passive and active methods not available in DIY kits:
Electret Tests
These rely on a charged Teflon disc that loses its charge when exposed to radon ions. The charge reduction is measured to determine radon levels.
Active Continuous Monitoring
This method uses an electronic device to measure and record radon levels over time, providing a detailed profile of radon fluctuations in the home.
Cost of Professional Testing
Professional radon testing typically costs between $150 and $250. While more expensive than DIY kits, it offers unmatched accuracy and peace of mind.
Understanding Your Radon Test Results
Whether you choose a DIY kit or hire professionals for testing, the findings display radon concentrations in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). The EPA recommends mitigation for any level at or above 4.0 pCi/L. While no radon level is safe, reducing it to below 2.0 pCi/L significantly decreases health risks.
Mitigating High Radon Levels
A radon mitigation system is essential if your test results show elevated radon levels. These systems use a fan and PVC piping to vent radon from beneath your home to the outside air. To ensure effective and safe mitigation, hire a certified radon mitigation specialist.
DIY vs. Professional: Which Is Better?
The choice between a DIY radon test and professional testing depends on your needs:
- Choose DIY: If you want a quick, cost-effective way to check for potential radon issues.
- Choose Professional: If you need precise results, are involved in a real estate transaction, or require long-term monitoring.
Ultimately, both methods play a role in detecting and addressing radon. A DIY test is a good starting point, but professional testing is the superior choice for critical situations.
