How to Test for Radon

Since radon gas has no smell or color, a test must be done in order to detect it. You can have a professional home inspector test your home for radon at a cost as high as $300.00, according to what part of the country you live in. However, if you choose to conduct the radon test yourself, you may be able to find a do-it-yourself kit for about $20.00 to $30.00. Most state and local health departments stock the kits. You may also contact your area’s American Lung Association for help in finding test kits. Most do-it-yourself test kits are relatively easy to use.

It is very important that the do-it-yourself kit be approved by the EPA and that you carefully follow the instructions that come with your test kit. If you are using a short-term kit there are several stipulations to remember.

• Close your windows and doors to the outside and keep them closed as much as you possibly can during the testing period. You may use your heaters and air-conditioners that are just re-circulating air. Basically, you do not want to bring outside air inside your home while testing. If you are doing a short-term test for only a couple of days, you must close the outside doors and windows at least 12 hours prior to beginning the test.
• The tests should not be conducted during severe storms or during times of high winds.
• Place the test kit in the lowest frequently used level of your home. If you have a basement that your use a lot, this would be the best spot for the test. If not, place the test on the first level of your home in a room such as the living room or bedroom. Radon levels in upper floors of your home are typically much lower than ground level.
• Do not put the test kit in a kitchen or bathroom.
• Place the kit at least 20 inches above the floor.
• Place the kit in an area where it will not be bothered in any way.
• Keep the kit out of the way of drafts, high heat, humidity, and exterior walls.
• Once you have completed the test, reseal the package and send it to the lab that is specified on the package. This must be done right away upon completion of the test. You should have your test results within a few weeks. If your result is 4 pCi/L or higher, you should take either another short-term or a long-term follow-up test to confirm this reading. The higher your first short-term test result is, the more certain you can be that you should take a short-term test rather than long-term. If your first short-term test result is more than twice the EPA's 4 pCi/L action level, your immediate action should be to test again with a second short-term kit.
• A long-term follow-up with a test result of 4 pCi/L or more is an indication that your home should be fixed.