How can I test my home for radon and what do I do if the levels are high?

Yes. Radon testing is straightforward, and testing is the only way to know whether your home has elevated radon. Radon is an odorless, radioactive gas that can enter from the soil and increase lung-cancer risk over long-term exposure.

How to test your home

1. Buy a radon test kit. DIY kits are available at hardware/home-improvement stores and online. Look for a kit from a reputable laboratory or a device recognized by your state/EPA program.
2. Put it in the lowest level where people regularly spend time. For example, if you use your basement as a living space, test there; otherwise, test the lowest regularly occupied floor. Don't put the detector in a crawl space, closet, bathroom, or other area that isn't representative of normal living conditions.
3. Start with a short-term test. These typically run 2–90 days, with at least 48 hours required for standard short-term testing. Follow the kit's instructions carefully and send the device to the specified laboratory when finished.
4. Consider a long-term test. A test lasting more than 90 days gives a better picture of your home's average exposure because radon levels fluctuate with weather and seasons.

What the number means

EPA specifically recommends fixing a home at 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³) or higher, and considering mitigation between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

If a short-term test comes back high, you can follow it with another test to confirm the result. EPA's current guidance also recognizes that a short-term result can be used to make a decision about mitigation, particularly when the level is substantially above 4 pCi/L.

If your radon is high

Don't panic and don't try to solve it simply by sealing every crack. The effective approach is a radon mitigation system, installed by a qualified radon professional.

The most common system uses a pipe and fan to draw radon-containing soil gas from beneath the house and exhaust it safely outdoors. Proper systems can substantially reduce radon—even very high concentrations can generally be brought down to acceptable levels.

After mitigation, test the home again to verify that the system has actually brought the concentration down.

Since you're in Washington State, the Washington Department of Health also recommends home radon testing and provides state-specific information.

If you tell me whether your house has a basement, crawlspace, or slab foundation, I can tell you exactly where I'd put the first test and what type of mitigation system you'd most likely need if it comes back high.

Testing your home for radon is straightforward, and high levels can be successfully mitigated.

How to Test Your Home for Radon

What to Do If Levels Are High

Radon is measured in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). The US EPA Radon Guidelines establish an action level of 4.0 pCi/L, and recommend considering action between 2.0 pCi/L and 4.0 pCi/L.

If you'd like, let me know:

• What type of foundation your home has (basement, crawlspace, or slab-on-grade)
• Whether you've already done a test and what the reading was

I can give you a better idea of what kind of mitigation approach might be needed.

Radon testing is straightforward, and it’s the only way to know whether your home has elevated radon because the gas is invisible and odorless. Radon can enter through cracks and openings in foundations and can build up indoors.

How to test your home for radon

1. Choose a test method

• Short-term test: Usually takes a few days to 90 days. These are inexpensive and available through hardware stores, online retailers, and radon programs.
• Long-term test: Measures radon for more than 90 days and can give a better picture of your home’s average exposure.
• Professional testing: A certified radon measurement professional can perform the test, which may be useful during a home sale or if you want documented results.

2. Place the test correctly

• Put it in the lowest lived-in level of your home (for example, a basement or ground-floor room if it is used regularly).
• Keep it away from drafts, direct sunlight, heat sources, and high humidity.
• Follow the kit instructions carefully and avoid moving or disturbing it during the test.

3. Understand the results

• Results are usually reported in picocuries per liter (pCi/L).
• The U.S. EPA recommends taking action when radon levels are 4 pCi/L or higher. Levels below that can still carry some risk, and reducing them may be worth considering.

What to do if radon levels are high

If your result is 4 pCi/L or higher:

1. Confirm the result if needed

• If you used a short-term test, you may want a follow-up test or professional measurement, especially before making major decisions.

2. Hire a qualified radon mitigation contractor

• Look for someone trained and certified through recognized radon programs or your state’s radon office.
• Ask for references, a written estimate, and details about the proposed system.

3. Install a radon reduction system

• The most common approach is soil suction, where a pipe and fan system pulls radon from beneath the foundation and vents it safely outdoors.
• Systems may also involve sealing foundation openings and improving barriers against soil gas entry.
• Properly installed systems can substantially reduce radon levels, sometimes by up to about 99%.

4. Retest after mitigation

• After the system is installed, test again to confirm that levels have dropped.

Helpful extra steps

• Seal cracks and openings in floors and foundations (this helps but usually is not enough by itself for high readings).
• If you smoke, reducing or quitting smoking is especially important because smoking combined with radon exposure increases lung cancer risk.
• Test again after major renovations or HVAC changes, or if you begin using a lower level of your home more often.

If you tell me your state (or country) and whether you have a basement, crawlspace, or slab foundation, I can suggest the most appropriate testing approach and where to find certified radon resources nearby.

Testing your home for radon is straightforward, and high levels can be effectively fixed. Here is what you need to know to test and remediate radon safely.

How to Test Your Home for Radon

• Short-Term Tests : These devices measure radon levels for anywhere from 2 to 90 days (depending on the device). They are fast and ideal for real estate transactions or initial checks. Common types include charcoal canisters and liquid scintillation detectors.
• Long-Term Tests : These remain in your home for more than 90 days, giving a more accurate picture of your year-round average exposure because radon levels fluctuate with the seasons. Alpha track detectors are a common long-term option.
• Continuous Radon Monitors (CRMs) : These are high-tech digital devices that continuously measure and record hourly radon levels. They are often used by professional inspectors.
• Where to Get Kits : You can buy DIY test kits online, at hardware stores, or through your state radon office. Many state programs offer discounted or even free test kits. You can find local resources via the EPA Radon Information Page.
• How to Place the Kit : Place the test kit in the lowest livable level of the home (e.g., the basement or first floor if you don't have a basement). Keep it out of drafts, high humidity, and direct sunlight, and leave it closed and undisturbed for the duration of the test.

What to Do If Levels Are High

The U.S. EPA action level is 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) or higher, though you may also consider fixing your home if levels are between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L.

1. Retest to Confirm : If you used a short-term test and the result was elevated, it is usually wise to follow up with a second short-term test or a continuous monitor to confirm the findings before investing in a mitigation system.
2. Hire a Certified Professional : Look for a qualified, certified radon mitigation contractor. You can find certified professionals through the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).
3. Install a Mitigation System : The most common and effective method is a sub-slab depressurization system . This uses a specialized vent pipe and a continuously running fan to draw radon gas from beneath the home's foundation and vent it safely outdoors above the roofline.
4. Re-test After Installation : Once the mitigation system is installed and running, run a follow-up test (usually after 24 hours of continuous operation) to ensure the system has successfully dropped the radon levels below the target threshold.

If you'd like, let me know:

• What state or region you live in
• Whether you have a basement, crawlspace, or slab-on-grade foundation

I can help you look up specific state testing resources or details on the best mitigation approach for your home type.

Testing your home for radon is the only way to know if you and your family are exposed to this invisible, radioactive gas . Because radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, the US EPA and the CDC strongly recommend testing all homes.

How to Test Your Home for Radon

Testing is inexpensive, straightforward, and can be done yourself or by a professional.

• Short-term tests (2 to 90 days) measure radon levels quickly. These include charcoal canisters or alpha track detectors available as DIY kits at most hardware stores or online.
• Long-term tests (more than 90 days) give you a much more accurate picture of your year-round average exposure because radon levels fluctuate with the seasons and weather.
• Continuous radon monitors (CRMs) digitally track and record hourly and daily fluctuations in radon levels, providing immediate and detailed data.
• Certified professional testing can be hired if you want immediate, official results—especially common or required during a real estate transaction.

Proper Test Placement:

1. Place the test kit in the lowest livable level of the home (e.g., the basement or a finished ground-floor room) where people spend time.
2. Keep doors and windows closed for at least 12 hours before and during a short-term test (closed-house conditions).
3. Avoid high-humidity or drafty areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.

Understanding the Results

Radon is measured in picoCuries per liter of air (pCi/L).

• 4.0 pCi/L or higher: The US EPA Action Level . If your reading is at or above this, you should take action to fix your home.
• 2.0 to 4.0 pCi/L: The US EPA Guidelines suggest considering mitigation in this range as well, because no level of exposure is entirely without risk.

What to Do If Levels Are High

If your test comes back elevated (≥ 4.0 pCi/L), don't panic—radon problems can be reliably fixed:

1. Conduct a follow-up test. If your first test was a short-term kit, follow up with a second short-term test or a long-term test to confirm the average. If the initial reading is very high (over 8 pCi/L), a quick second test is usually recommended so you can proceed with fixing the problem promptly.
2. Hire a qualified professional. Look for a certified or licensed radon mitigation contractor. You can find credentialed professionals through the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or your state’s health or radon department.
3. Install a mitigation system. The most common and effective method is sub-slab depressurization . A contractor installs a PVC vent pipe through the foundation floor attached to an inline fan that continuously draws radon gas from beneath the house and safely exhausts it above the roofline. These systems can lower indoor radon levels by up to 99%.
4. Retest after installation. Once the system is running, do a follow-up test to verify that levels have dropped safely below 4.0 pCi/L (ideally below 2.0 pCi/L). Re-verify the system's performance every couple of years.

Would you like help finding a certified local radon professional in your area, or do you need advice on how to set up a DIY test kit under closed-house conditions?

Yes. Radon testing is inexpensive and straightforward, and if the result is high, there are effective ways to reduce it.

1. Test your home

You have two main options:

• Short-term test: Usually 2–90 days, depending on the device. For a first test, EPA recommends at least 48 hours. DIY kits are available, or you can hire a qualified radon tester.
• Long-term test: More than 90 days, and generally gives a better estimate of your home's year-round average because radon levels vary by season and weather.

For a DIY test, put the detector in the lowest level of the house that you regularly use, such as a basement or first floor. Place it in a regularly occupied room—not the kitchen or bathroom—at least about 20 inches above the floor, away from drafts, heat, humidity, and exterior walls. Follow the kit's instructions and return it to the specified laboratory.

You can use EPA's radon testing and mitigation resources to find approved testing options and professionals.

2. Understand the number

Radon is reported in picocuries per liter (pCi/L):

There is no known completely safe level of radon exposure. EPA's action level is 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³).

If your first short-term test is 4 pCi/L or higher, EPA generally recommends a follow-up test. A second short-term test can be used if you want confirmation quickly; a long-term test gives a better indication of the annual average.

3. If the level is high, mitigate it

Don't try to solve a significant radon problem simply by opening windows or running an air purifier. The usual solution is a radon mitigation system installed by a qualified professional. These systems commonly use a pipe and fan to draw radon-containing soil gas from beneath the house and vent it safely outside.

EPA says properly designed mitigation systems can reduce indoor radon by up to 99% in some homes.

After installation, test again to make sure the system is working and continue periodic testing.

One important point

If you're buying a home, selling one, or have a result substantially above 4 pCi/L, I'd take the testing/confirmation process seriously rather than relying on a single inexpensive detector. EPA has specific testing protocols for real-estate transactions.

If you tell me what state you're in and whether you have a basement/crawlspace, I can look up the appropriate state radon program and the best way to get a test kit or qualified mitigator near you.

Testing your home for radon is straightforward, and high levels can be effectively mitigated. Here is a clear breakdown of how to test and what steps to take if the results are elevated.

How to Test Your Home for Radon

• Short-Term Tests: Measure radon levels for anywhere from 2 to 90 days, depending on the device. Charcoal canisters, alpha track detectors, and continuous monitors are common. These give a quick snapshot of your levels. Keep windows and doors closed for at least 12 hours before and during the test.
• Long-Term Tests: Remain in place for more than 90 days (such as an alpha track or electret detector). Because radon levels fluctuate with the seasons and weather, a long-term test gives a more accurate year-round average.
• Where to Place the Test: Place the kit in the lowest lived-in level of the home (usually the basement or first floor if you don't have a basement). Keep it out of drafts, high humidity areas, and direct sunlight, about 20 inches above the floor.
• How to Get a Kit: You can purchase inexpensive DIY test kits at local hardware stores, online, or order one directly through the EPA Radon Information page or state radon programs. Many states also offer low-cost or free test kits.

What Do the Results Mean?

Radon levels are measured in picoCuries per liter of air (p C i⁄L):

• Less than𝟒𝐩𝐂𝐢⁄𝐋: Average indoor levels typically fall around 1.3 p C i⁄L , but no radon level is completely "safe." The EPA recommends considering action if levels are between 2 p C i⁄L and 4 p C i⁄L.
• 𝟒𝐩𝐂𝐢⁄𝐋 or Higher: This is the action level where the EPA strongly recommends fixing your home to reduce exposure.

What to Do If Levels Are High

1. Retest to Confirm: If you used a short-term test and the result was 4 p C i⁄L or higher, it is standard practice to do a follow-up test (either another short-term test or a long-term test) to confirm the average before investing in a mitigation system.
2. Hire a Qualified Professional: Look for a certified or licensed radon mitigation professional in your area. You can find certified contractors through the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).
3. Install a Mitigation System: The most common and effective method is Sub-Slab Depressurization . A professional will install a PVC pipe through the foundation floor into the soil/rock beneath, attach an inline fan that runs continuously, and vent the radon gas safely out above the roofline before it can enter your living space.
4. Post-Mitigation Testing: Once the system is installed, run a follow-up test (usually after 24 hours of continuous operation) to verify that the radon levels have dropped below 4 p C i⁄L.

If you'd like, let me know:

• What type of foundation your home has (basement, crawlspace, or slab-on-grade)
• Whether you are planning to buy, sell, or test your current home

I can give you more specific advice on the testing or mitigation process!

Yes—testing for radon is relatively easy, and it’s worth doing because radon is invisible and odorless, and elevated levels occur even in newer, well-sealed homes.

1. Test your home

The simplest option is a DIY test kit. You can buy a short-term kit from a hardware/home-improvement store or through a state/EPA-recommended laboratory. Illinois also provides information about approved testing resources.

For a short-term test:

• Put it in the lowest level of the home that you regularly occupy—for example, a basement if you spend time there, otherwise the first floor.
• Put it in a regularly used room, not the kitchen or bathroom.
• Keep it at least about 20 inches above the floor, away from drafts, exterior walls, high heat and humidity.
• Leave it in place for the period specified by the kit, generally at least 48 hours.
• Follow the kit's instructions for sealing and sending it to the laboratory.

A long-term test (more than 90 days) gives a better picture of your home's year-round average, while a short-term test gets you an answer more quickly.

2. Understand the result

EPA's action level is 4.0 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³), and Illinois likewise recommends keeping residential levels below 4.0 pCi/L.

If a first short-term test comes back at 4 pCi/L or above, EPA guidance generally calls for a follow-up test to confirm the result; two short-term tests can be averaged for this purpose.

3. If the level is high

Don't panic—radon problems are usually fixable. A qualified radon-mitigation contractor can install a system that draws radon from beneath the house and vents it outdoors. The most common approach uses a pipe and fan (sub-slab depressurization).

A few important points:

• Don't rely on caulking cracks alone. Sealing is often part of mitigation, but EPA says sealing alone isn't a reliable way to reduce radon significantly.
• Get estimates from a qualified radon mitigator rather than trying to design a system yourself.
• Retest after mitigation to make sure the system actually brought the level down.
• Illinois recommends testing approximately every two years, and also retesting if you make significant changes to the house or begin using a lower level as living space.

Since you're in Illinois, I can also look up the Illinois-approved radon test-kit options and certified mitigation contractors near Highland Park if you'd like.

Radon testing is pretty straightforward, and testing is the only way to know whether your home has a problem. Radon is odorless and invisible, and elevated levels can occur in any home.

1. Start with a short-term test

A good approach is:

• Buy an EPA-compatible radon test kit or hire a qualified radon measurement professional.
• Put the test in the lowest level of the home that you regularly use—for example, a first floor or an occupied basement.
• Place it in a regularly used room, at least 20 inches above the floor, away from drafts, exterior walls, excessive humidity, heat, and windows.
• Follow the kit's instructions, typically leaving it in place for 2–90 days depending on the test type, then send it to the specified laboratory.

You can also use a continuous electronic radon monitor, but if it shows an elevated reading, EPA recommends confirming it with an appropriate follow-up test or professional measurement.

2. Understand the result

EPA's action level is 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³).

If a short-term test comes back at 4 pCi/L or higher, EPA's traditional testing guidance recommends a follow-up test to confirm the result before making a mitigation decision, particularly when the initial test wasn't part of a real-estate transaction.

3. If it's high, have the home mitigated

Don't try to solve a high reading simply by opening windows or running an ordinary air purifier. The usual solution is a radon mitigation system designed for the home's foundation.

A professional typically installs a system that draws radon-containing soil gas from beneath the home and exhausts it safely outdoors. Depending on the house, this can involve sub-slab suction, crawl-space systems, sealing of openings, and a continuously operating fan. Proper systems can reduce radon substantially.

After mitigation, test again to make sure the system actually brought the level down.

If you're in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Health Services Radon Program provides testing information and resources for finding certified radon contractors. Arizona also regulates radon mitigation contractors through the Registrar of Contractors.

One important point: don't assume Phoenix or your particular neighborhood is safe because the area has historically low/moderate radon potential. EPA specifically says the radon-zone map should not be used to determine whether an individual home needs testing—every home should be tested.

If you tell me whether your home has a basement, crawl space, or slab foundation, I can tell you exactly where I'd place the first test and what type of mitigation system would typically be used if it comes back high.

Testing your home for radon is straightforward, and high levels can be effectively mitigated. Here is how you can test your home and what steps to take if the results are elevated.

How to Test Your Home for Radon

Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas, so testing is the only way to know your exposure. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing every home.

• Short-Term Tests: These kits measure radon levels for anywhere from 2 to 90 days, depending on the device. Charcoal canisters and electret chambers are common types. They are ideal for a quick snapshot, especially if you are buying or selling a home.
• Long-Term Tests: These devices remain in your home for more than 90 days. Alpha track detectors give a more accurate year-round average because radon levels fluctuate with the seasons and weather.
• Continuous Radon Monitors (CRMs): These are electronic devices that continuously measure and record the level of radon gas, providing daily averages. These are often used by professional inspectors.
• How to place the test: Place the kit in the lowest living level of the home that could be used regularly (like a finished or unfinished basement, or the main floor if you have no basement). Keep it away from drafts, high humidity, and direct sunlight.
• Where to get a kit: You can purchase inexpensive DIY kits at most hardware stores, online, or directly through your state radon office. You can also hire a qualified professional to conduct the test for you.

What to Do If Levels Are High

Radon levels are measured in picoCuries per liter of air (p C i L the fraction with numerator p cap C i and denominator cap L end-fraction𝑝𝐶𝑖𝐿).

• The EPA action level is 4.0𝑝𝐶𝑖𝐿 or higher.
• The World Health Organization recommends a stricter reference level of 2.7𝑝𝐶𝑖𝐿.
• If your test result is 4.0𝑝𝐶𝑖𝐿 or higher, you should take action. Even if levels are between 2.0𝑝𝐶𝑖𝐿 and 4.0𝑝𝐶𝑖𝐿, you may still want to consider fixing the problem.

1. Retest to Confirm: If you used a short-term test and the result was elevated, it is usually wise to do a follow-up short-term or long-term test to confirm the average before investing in a mitigation system.
2. Hire a Qualified Professional: Look for a certified or licensed radon mitigation contractor. You can find certified professionals through the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).
3. Install a Mitigation System: The most common and effective method is sub-slab depressurization . A contractor installs a PVC pipe through the foundation floor into the crushed rock or soil beneath, and attaches an inline fan that draws the radon gas from beneath the house and exhausts it safely outdoors above the roofline.
4. Retest After Mitigation: Once the system is installed, run a follow-up test (usually after 24 hours of continuous operation) to ensure the radon levels have dropped below the safe threshold.
5. Maintain the System: Check the pressure gauge on the mitigation system regularly to make sure the fan is working properly, and retest your home every two years to ensure levels remain low.

If you'd like, let me know:

• What type of foundation your home has (basement, crawlspace, or slab-on-grade)
• Whether you are buying/selling or just doing routine maintenance

I can give you more specific advice on testing and mitigation.