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The Best Radon Test Kit

Last updated on September 19, 2023
Best Radon Test Kit

Our Review Process

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Radon gas is dangerous because it’s colorless, odorless and tasteless. It is reported as being the second leading cause of lung cancer, with smoking coming in at number one. The only way to know if radon gas is present in your home is to test for it. Fortunately, you can purchase a radon test kit online and conduct the test yourself.

Look for a radon test kit with an all-inclusive price. Otherwise, you’ll need to add a lab fee and shipping costs to the price of the test kit. Some companies actually provide their customers with a prepaid mailer to make returning the sample a breeze.

Consider the length of time required to collect the radon sample. Some options only need to sit out between 48 and 96 hours. There are other models that require you to leave them out for as long as seven days.

Review how long it takes the lab to email your results once they receive your sample. The First Alert RD1 Radon Gas Test Kit offers one of the fastest turnaround times of just 72 hours. Some labs state three to five working days for results, while others don’t even provide a return time range.

Research the lab associated with the radon test kit. You want to make sure the results you get are accurate. Some companies opt to have their samples analyzed by an NRPP-certified US lab. This lab has been successfully conducting these tests since 1983.

Our Picks For The Top Radon Test Kits

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Watersafe Short-Term Ionization Radon Test Kit

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Watersafe

Short-Term Ionization Radon Test Kit

Unlike other quick radon test kits on the market, this option has no separate lab fees. It's EPA-approved and easy to set up in any home that you have your eye on. A set of directions with illustrations is provided and once the sample is submitted, you'll receive results in as little as three days.

Overall Take

No Additional Lab FeesThis radon test kit takes just 48 hours to obtain an accurate sample.

 Runner Up

ProLab Complete Fast Results Radon Test Kit

ProLab

Complete Fast Results Radon Test Kit

If you work in the real estate field, you'll want to invest in this radon test kit. Each kit comes with two radon detectors that are designed for short-term use. Once you collect your samples, simply mail the tests to the testing facility, download the company's app and watch for your results.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly PickThis radon test kit is able to provide accurate results at a lower price tag.

 We Also Like

First Alert RD1 EPA Radon Gas Test Kit

First Alert

RD1 EPA Radon Gas Test Kit

It's a good idea for every home to routinely have the radon levels checked, as radon is known for causing cancer. This kit is extremely easy to use and provides accurate test results within 72 hours of the company receiving your sample. Lab fees are included in the price, with the exception of New Jersey residents, who will need to pay a small fee.

Overall Take

Accurate ResultsIf you're looking for a radon test kit that delivers fast results, this model is your best bet.

 Also Great

Health Metric Visual Free Lab Testing Radon Test Kit

Health Metric

Visual Free Lab Testing Radon Test Kit

All you need to do to use this radon test kit is place the sample in an undisturbed location on the lowest level of your home and wait 48 hours. After two days have passed, you can place the sample in the provided packaging and send it off to the lab. A detailed analysis will follow as soon as the lab processes your sample.

Overall Take

Easy to UseUnlike other radon test kits that take up to seven days, this kit only has to sit out for 48 hours.

What to Look For

  • For the best results, you need to set up your radon test kit only after the indoor temperature of your home is set to a consistent 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Choose a testing location for your radon kit. You need to place it on the lowest level of your home in a room that does not receive a lot of humidity. A den, bedroom or family room is a much better choice than a kitchen or bathroom. Damp basements should also be avoided.
  • Set the radon test 20 inches above the floor and close all the windows and doors. It is important that you don’t use any fans or devices that could bring outside air into the room that’s housing your test.
  • Avoid testing on days when storms or high wind are expected.
  • Let the radon test sit undisturbed for the designated amount of time listed in the product directions. This is typically anywhere between 2 to 7 days.
  • Collect your test kit once the time is up and immediately place it in the mailer and send it off to the lab.
  • Most radon test kits do not collect any lab fees; however, the state of New Jersey requires residents to pay a nominal fee to have their samples tests.
  • If the radon levels come back as elevated, you may be able to correct the issue using sealants and other low-cost products. It’s also possible that you may need to purchase a radon mitigation system, which will reduce the amount of radon in your breathable space.
  • You can visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website for the organization’s most current radon testing guidelines.
  • If cost is a consideration in your decision, you’ll find radon test kits are available in every budget.

More to Explore

Radon is a radioactive compound that is found in soil and rocks, including the soil and rocks underneath and surrounding your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that 21,000 of all lung cancer deaths are a direct result of radon.

January is National Radon Action Month. The EPA takes advantage of this month to bring awareness to homeowners. Radon does not discriminate based on home type or the area of the country in which you live. Approximately 1 in every 15 homes has radon levels that rise above the normal level. This is why it is so important that every homeowner take the time to have their living space tested.

More to explore