You live somewhere known to have high levels of radon gas and have concerns about levels inside your house and what causes radon gas. You should since radon gas has been linked to cancer and kills about 21,000 people in the United States each year. Let’s look at the causes of radon gas and how to detect it.
Radon gas is a naturally occurring gas that is created inside the earth from uranium and is also called uranium gas. This gas escapes the ground over time between the cracks and gets inside your house, where it is trapped. It is not easily detected when inside your home as it has no odor, color, or taste, making it a silent danger.
How do radon tests work?
Testing radon uses a charcoal filter inside tiny canisters. Before testing for radon gas, you will need to find a location in the lowest living unit of your house, where the radon gas is closest. Ensure there is no exterior air entering the space for 12 hours before the testing and during the sampling period, which is 2 to 4 days. There should also be no traffic in the area while testing is in progress to prevent interference with the radon kit. Once the collection is complete, the radon kit needs to go to a radon testing lab for analysis.
How to pass a radon test
The EPA recommends safe radon gas ranges between 2 to 4 picocuries (pCi), but at a level of 4 pCi), it is recommended to remove the radon gas. You must have levels between 2-4 (pCi) to pass a radon test.
Radon testing cost
Suppose you want to keep things on the cheap, buy a radon test kit, and do the testing yourself. But suppose you want to be sure that radon levels are accurately rendered. In that case, you will want to hire an air quality professional or an industrial hygienist to conduct the complete test. The consultant will know how to properly perform the test and also be able to provide a wealth of information about radon and air quality in general. The consultant will also interpret the results so you can understand them. Expect to pay about $20 for a do-it-yourself kit, plus the cost of lab testing. And if you prefer to hire a professional, it can cost between $200 to $355, including the kit and lab testing.
Radon testing near me
If you are looking for a radon testing specialist in your area, try contacting your local building department’s radon unit and ask for their list of consultants. You may also contact the industrial hygienists at 5 Microns Inc. for assistance. We have the expertise and tools to conduct a proper radon gas test. Our professionals respect your home and wear shoe covers and latex gloves. We are open from 9-5 Monday to Friday and 9-3:30 Saturday.
