Technically, you may test for radon gas by yourself. You can purchase the radon gas test from a big box store, hardware shop, or online retailer. Conducting a DIY radon test is a straightforward process. The test kit usually includes two vials to gather samples, a mailing address, and a form.
Once the test is complete (2 to 90 days depending on the type of test), you will collect the sample and mail it to the laboratory’s mailing address provided in the kit. You will receive the analyzed test results within a few weeks. The entire process seems simple, but several variables may affect the accuracy of your sample collection.
How to conduct the DIY radon gas test correctly?
To ensure accurate collection of the sample, do the following steps:
1) Seal your home.
Keep all the doors and windows leading to the outside closed for up to twelve hours before conducting the test. At the start of the test, keep all entry and exit points to the outside shut. Turn off and keep off air conditioners and fans.
2) Place the testing kit in the lowest room of your house.
Whether it’s a crawl space or the basement, the test must be placed on a flat surface in this space. Here, place the test twenty inches away from the floor.
3) Ensure you do not move or touch the test kit.
This is for the duration of the test (from 48 to 86 hours). Avoid placing it near windows, vents, or exterior walls.
4) Avoid placing the radon test in the utility room, bathroom, or kitchen.
The best place to place the test is in the bedroom, family room, living room, or in an unfurnished room.
Problems with doing the radon gas test by yourself.
Since several steps must be followed to obtain accurate results, you can expect a few things to go wrong.
First, the test should be placed correctly. If it’s placed near an opening or directly on the floor, it may skew the results.
Second, while the test is going on, a family member might accidentally open a window or turn on the air conditioner. This will affect the results.
Third, the weather is unpredictable. Although the forecast may not have rain or storms for the next few days, it can change at any time. Lastly, if there is a cat or dog in the home, it might assume the test kit is a toy and use it for play. This will alter the results.
Don’t forget, it takes a few weeks for the lab results to come back. If you need immediate results, a DIY radon test won’t be suitable.
Hire a professional radon testing company
In most situations, hiring a certified professional radon mitigation contractor helps. This is an impartial, third-party individual who can perform radon tests and mitigation protocols. It’s always a good idea to make certified radon specialists carry out these specialized tests.
The radon testing company may perform passive or active tests. For example, an electric test is a passive test. It uses a statically charged disc. When decomposing radon ions strike the disc, it reduces the electrical charge. The laboratory can tell the reduction amount.
If using an active test, you need an electrical power. This type of radon test uses continuous monitoring to sense and record radon gas levels. In case the professional radon company detects elevated radon levels in the house, they might recommend installing a radon mitigation system. This includes a vent pipe and fan to draw out the radon.
Get in touch with a professional radon company
Now, it is possible to test for radon by yourself. However, if you want the best results, look to hire a professional. Undetected radon poses severe health risks for you and your family. Your attempt to self-test may unknowingly skew the results. However, if a professional discover elevated radon levels, they will quickly install a mitigation system to reduce your chances of developing cancer.
Atlantic Radon Mitigation will test for radon gas in your home. It is one of the largest and most trusted radon mitigation specialists in Maryland. Atlantic Radon Mitigation is staffed with a team of certified radon mitigation specialists. They rely on the latest testing and removal equipment to meet customers’ challenges.
Do you have questions about radon gas testing? To ensure your home does not have a radon issue, get in touch with Atlantic Radon Mitigation today.
