Radon Testing

1 out of 15 homes in the U.S. is estimated to have excessive levels of radon present. Radon is a natural, radioactive, odorless gas and is considered a serious health hazard to humans. It is concentrated in soil, from which it radiates outward into the air. In some cases, radon leaks into homes, where humans are exposed to it. It is also a byproduct of geothermal power plants, so residents in these areas should be extra aware of the possibility of elevated radon levels and be sure to test for radon regularly.

Radon occurs naturally as a result of the breakdown of elements such as uranium which is found in soil. Radon gas and its solid decay products are known as carcinogens, or cancer-causing agents. In fact, it is believed that radon is responsible for a large percentage of lung cancer deaths in the U.S. every year, including people who do not smoke. The National Institute of Health (NIH) has also linked elevated radon levels with an increased incidence of childhood leukemia.

There is no safe threshold for exposure to radon gas; even low levels are linked to serious health problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that, “Any radon exposure has some risk of causing lung cancer. The lower the radon levels in your home, the lower your family’s risk of lung cancer.” We are all exposed to some amount of radon in the air around us, and some areas of the country have higher levels than others. Radon is measured in pico-curies/liter. Within your home any measurement of more than 4 pico/liter, is cause for serious concern.

Ironically, newer built homes are more likely to have elevated levels of radon than older homes. This is because improvements in home building techniques create an environment that fosters the concentration of radon within living spaces. Older homes are less insulated and less ‘air tight’, which allows gasses and chemicals to escape more easily. Conversely, new homes, designed for optimal energy efficiency, are more insulated with more tightly sealed doors and windows. This allows radon to become heavily concentrated with no means to escape the home. However, older homes are not exempt from the possibility of radon infiltration, as the gas is known to leak into homes through cracks in the foundations or floors.

The only way to definitively know if your home has elevated radon levels is to test for radon in the air. Home kits are readily available and experts advise all potential homeowners to test the home’s air quality before signing a purchase contract. When testing your own home, you should get an initial measure and then continue to re-test yearly. Radon levels naturally fluctuate, so keeping readings over time will give a better picture of the extent of the problem.

Do-it-yourself radon testing kits can be ordered from various sources. Testing your home for radon exposure is actually quite simple and inexpensive with a home testing kit. The most commonly used type of test is an activated charcoal test, in which a test collection device with charcoal absorbs chemicals that are present in the air. Most commonly, the test comes in a small box or plastic bag, which has a vent to open. You simply leave the test for three to seven days to (be sure to consult your manufacturer directions for the exact time) to collect air samples. It is vital that you follow the instructions exactly for the most accurate results. After the waiting period you will send your testing kit to a laboratory, where the various chemicals are sorted out and identified. The lab technician will measure the level of the chemicals, and send you a detailed report.

Radon is a ‘heavy’ gas and its source is often soil; so it tends to accumulate in the lower levels of living spaces. The test should be placed in the lowest useable space in your home in order to record what the level is and where the concentration is naturally highest. Some people choose to test the crawl space as this is the lowest point in the home, but it is also important to remember that you do not spend extensive amounts of time there. You may wish to test both the upper and lower levels of your home, particularly if a first set of test results is questionable.

You can also purchase a radon detector, a device that gives real time readings, which creates a more complete picture of the actual level of exposure in your home. Although more expensive than charcoal tests, they are simple to use and do not require professional interpretation. Keep in mind, many home inspection companies also offer a radon testing service, which is a worthwhile investment in your home’s long-term value, not to mention the health of you and your family.

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