Watersafe Short-Term Ionization Radon Test Kit

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.

• 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.