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Should I test for radon in my basement?

By October 22, 2021October 29th, 2021Radon Gas Testing
Should I test for radon in my basement?

There’s nothing like having a house with a finished basement where you can have your man cave, a recreation room for the kids, a home gym, or turning it into another living space that you can rent out and earn extra income. But there is a concern that there may be radon trapped in the basement.

Radon gas can be lethal as it can cause cancer. This gas is formed in the earth and comes from uranium gas. It can slip through the foundation cracks and get trapped inside your house. It is colorless and odorless. But you need to know if this gas is inside your home to have the peace of mind you need.

How do radon tests work?

If you are concerned with radon’s possibility in your home, you should get a test done. The best location to perform a radon test is in the lowest living area of the house, and if you have a basement, that is where you would do the test. A home radon test can take as little as 2-4 days. A home radon test kit consists of 1 or 2 charcoal canisters placed at least two feet above the floor and one foot away from an outside wall. The radon gas passes through the charcoal where it is trapped and can be analyzed by a radon testing laboratory for the presence and level of radon gas. No outside air must be allowed to enter the space where the radon kit is installed, which can negatively impact the results. You run heating and cooling just as long as these systems are not bringing in outside air in the space. Radon fans are permitted to run during testing, however.

How to pass a radon test

Radon levels are read in Picocuries (pCi). The EPA has set recommended safe levels at between 2 and 4 Picocuries. Radon levels above four pCi need immediate attention, and removing the gas is required to avoid serious health effects.

Radon testing cost

The cost to test for radon can vary widely depending on the consultant you hire and the scope of the test, but for an average size house, radon testing can cost about $350. One kit can cover about 1,500 square feet of space.

Radon testing near me

Finding a consultant to perform radon testing for your home is just a few clicks away. Search for “radon testing near me,” and there should be many results. You can also search for an industrial hygienist, as many tend to perform radon testing. 5 Microns Inc. performs radon testing. We have the right tools and expertise to take care of all your testing needs. We are available Monday to Friday between 9 AM and 5 PM and Saturday between 9 AM and 3 PM.

Additionally, 5 Microns Inc. can also test the air quality in your home for VOCs, mold, asbestos, lead, drinking water, and various other tests for contaminants. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for more information. Call 425-440-8787 Now!