Safety Measures: Radon Reduction in Your Home

Posted by etrlabs on June 24th, 2019

Radon is a type of radioactive gas that has no color, odor, or taste. It comes from uranium breakdown in soil, rock, and water. The byproduct formed from this process can seep into houses, putting everyone’s health at risk. There are radon test labs that can evaluate the amount that exists in your home. Learn more about it and how you can protect your family.

How Is It Harmful?

Next to cigarette smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. The risk of developing this disease increases further if you smoke and your home has high levels of radon. Since it's an odorless and colorless gas, it’s difficult to detect and avoid. Some signs and symptoms include having a cough that won't go away, coughing up blood, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Tens and thousands of deaths each year are linked to this type of cancer caused by exposure.

How to Reduce Radon Levels?

There are several ways to reduce radon levels. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends calling certified mitigation contractors to get an estimate for your home. Reduction techniques vary and will be most effective when your house is assessed and examined appropriately by a professional. Some examples include soil suction, drain tile or perforated pipe installation, and utilization of heat recovery ventilators (HRVs). Other methods are done depending on the type of residence.

How Long Does Testing Take?

Qualified testing kits or special equipment are necessary since radon is colorless and odorless. Samples are gathered and sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available after 24 hours. Water testing takes about 24 hours as well.

Why Test for It?

Early detection allows for prompt application of measures to decrease radon levels in your home. The gas concentration in the air is measured in pCi/L (Picocuries per Liter). If levels reach 4pCi/L or more, reduction is highly recommended. Testing kits are needed as the radioactive gas isn't easily detected or measured by any other means. Additionally, it may be present in either old or new homes whether or not they have basements. Radon is also water soluble and can be dispersed through showers, faucets, and dishwashers. Testing for it in water can help determine the right course of action to decrease its levels significantly. 

Keeping your family safe should always be your top priority. Performing a radon test from labsallows you to determine whether your home is exposed to high levels of the radioactive gas. Utilizing mitigation methods can also help in reducing concentration, which improves indoor air quality.