Radon Testing
There
are a number of methods for testing for radon. The most
common is a short-term test using one or more charcoal
canisters. The canisters are placed in the home for 48 hours
(min.), after which they are sent to a laboratory
for analysis. The results of the test tell you what the
average concentration of radon was in your home at
the time of the test. Special monitoring equipment can
also be used that provide results immediately after the
sampling period is completed.
If the
short-term test's results are above the EPA threshold of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) but below 10 pCi/L, it is
recommended that you take a long-term test. A long-term
test lasts at least 90 days and give a more reliable
sampling of the radon levels in your home. Decisions
concerning mitigation actions should be based on the
findings of the long-term test.
If your
initial test comes back above 10 pCi/L, the EPA recommends
that you take a second short-term test immediately to
confirm the results of the first test. If the average of
the two tests is above 4.0 pCi/L, the EPA recommends mitigation
action be taken.
Other
testing methods that utilize real-time monitoring
equipment are also available. The benefit of real-time
measurements is that you get immediate results — you
don't have to wait to receive your results back from the
lab.
Radon
can also be an issue if buying or renting a home.
Because real estate sales happen quickly, there is often
insufficient time to perform the long-term test.
Therefore, short-term tests are usually preferred. For
more information regarding radon and home sales,
checkout the EPA's
Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon.
To have your home tested, please contact:
Brian Gibson
ARID Resources
(402) 861-4400
radon@aridresources.com