How do I know if my home has high radon levels?
To determine if your home has high radon levels, you need to conduct radon testing. There are two main types of radon tests: short-term and long-term. Short-term tests typically last from 2 to 7 days and provide a quick snapshot of radon levels. These tests may involve charcoal canisters, alpha track detectors, or continuous radon monitors. Long-term tests, on the other hand, are conducted for more extended periods, ranging from 3 months to a year, and provide a more accurate average of radon levels in your home. Long-term tests are usually conducted using alpha track detectors or continuous radon monitors. Radon test kits are widely available for purchase online or in hardware stores. Alternatively, you can hire a qualified radon measurement professional to perform the testing for you. It is recommended to test the lowest livable area of your home, such as the basement or ground floor. Following the test, the results will indicate whether your home has high radon levels and whether mitigation measures are necessary to reduce the radon concentration to safe levels.