How to Interpret Your Radon Test Results: What Do the Numbers Mean?

Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the environment and can pose a significant health risk if it accumulates in enclosed spaces, such as homes and buildings. Radon is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without a proper test. The only way to know if your home has elevated levels of radon is to conduct a radon test.

In this article, we will discuss how to interpret your radon test results, including what the numbers mean, and what actions you should take if your test results show elevated levels of radon. We will also explore different types of radon tests, prevention methods, and how often you should retest your home.

Understanding Radon Gas and Its Health Risks

Radon gas is produced when uranium in rocks, soil, and water breaks down. As radon gas is released into the air, it can seep into buildings through cracks and gaps in the foundation, walls, and floors. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Exposure to high levels of radon gas over time can lead to lung cancer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure is higher for smokers, but non-smokers can also be affected.

Types of Radon Tests: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Testing

There are two types of radon tests: short-term and long-term. Short-term testing typically lasts for two to seven days and provides a quick snapshot of the radon levels in your home. Long-term testing lasts for more than 90 days and provides a more accurate assessment of the average radon levels over an extended period.

The EPA recommends conducting a long-term test for at least 90 days during the fall or winter months. If a short-term test is conducted and the results are above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, a long-term test is recommended to confirm the results.

Interpreting Your Radon Test Results: What Do the Numbers Mean?

When you receive the results of your radon test, they will typically indicate the concentration of radon in the air in units of picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The following ranges can be used as a guide to interpret your test results:

  • Less than 2 pCi/L: Low radon levels
  • Between 2 and 4 pCi/L: Moderate radon levels
  • Above 4 pCi/L: High radon levels

It is important to note that there is no safe level of radon exposure. The EPA action level of 4 pCi/L is a guideline for homeowners to take action to reduce radon levels in their homes.

What to Do If Your Radon Levels Are High

If your radon test results show levels above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, it is recommended that you take action to reduce radon levels in your home. There are several methods to reduce radon levels, including:

  • Ventilation. Increasing the ventilation in your home can help reduce radon levels. This can be achieved by opening windows and doors or installing an air exchanger.
  • Sealing cracks and gaps. Sealing any cracks or gaps in your foundation, walls, and floors can help prevent radon from entering your home.
  • Radon mitigation system. A radon mitigation system is a specialized system that can be installed in your home to reduce radon levels. This system typically involves installing a pipe and fan to draw radon out of the ground and expel it outside.

Preventing Radon Entry and Reducing Levels in Your Home

Preventing radon from entering your home is the best way to reduce radon levels. Some preventative measures include:

  • Sealing foundation cracks. Sealing foundation cracks can prevent radon gas from entering your home. This can be done using caulking or other sealants.
  • Proper ventilation. Proper ventilation is essential to reducing radon levels in your home. Ensure your home has adequate ventilation, and consider installing a mechanical ventilation system if necessary.
  • Regular maintenance. Regular maintenance of your home, including checking for leaks and cracks, can help prevent radon from entering your home.

Re-Testing Your Home for Radon: How Often Should You Do It?

After reducing radon levels in your home, it is essential to retest your home to ensure the levels remain low. The EPA recommends retesting your home every two years, especially if you have made significant renovations or changes to your home's foundation.

If you have not conducted a radon test recently or have never tested your home for radon, it is recommended that you conduct a test as soon as possible.

Finding a Qualified Radon Mitigation Professional

If you need help reducing radon levels in your home, it is important to find a qualified radon mitigation professional. A professional can conduct a radon test, determine the best method to reduce radon levels in your home, and install a radon mitigation system if necessary.

When selecting a radon mitigation professional, ensure they are licensed and certified. The National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) and the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) offer certification programs for radon professionals.

In Conclusion

Radon is a dangerous gas that can accumulate in homes and cause lung cancer. The only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is to conduct a radon test. If your test results show elevated levels of radon, it is important to take action to reduce radon levels in your home.

Preventative measures such as sealing foundation cracks and increasing ventilation can help prevent radon from entering your home. If you need help reducing radon levels, it is important to find a qualified radon mitigation professional.

Regularly retesting your home for radon is essential to ensure radon levels remain low. By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and healthy home for you and your family.

Sources

EPA: What is EPA's Action Level for Radon and What Does it Mean?
Mayo Clinic: Radon: The odorless, invisible threat
Kansas State University’s National Radon Program Services: Radon Standards of Practice
National Radon Safety Board