Are DIY radon tests accurate?

Are DIY radon tests accurate?

Although DIY radon kits are a great approach to get started learning about the radon risks in your house, they’re much less conclusive as professional tests. Long-term radon kits are somewhat more accurate. For instance, you may buy an activated charcoal DIY Radon Test kit from a neighborhood hardware shop.

What is the most reliable radon test kit?

Our Top Picks

• BEST OVERALL: Corentium Home Radon Detector.
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: First Alert Radon Gas Test Kit.
• UPGRADE PICK: Airthings Radon & Air Quality Monitor.
• BEST SHORT-TERM: AccuStar Radon Gas Test Kit.
• BEST LONG-TERM: Radon Eye Radon Reading Monitor.

Can I test for radon myself?

You can do it yourself or hire someone to do it for you. from a hardware store. Or you can order one by calling 1-800-SOS-RADON (1-800-767-7236) or going to the National Radon Program Services website (http://sosradon.org/test-kits). Set up the testing device to check the air for radon.

Is a 48 hour radon test accurate?

Findings show radon tests of less than 90 days are imprecise up to 99 percent of the time. Summary: A new study finds the only reliable way to measure exposure to radon gas is with a long-term testing kit, 90 or more days. “Radon gas levels can fluctuate wildly day to day,” says Dr.

Do home radon test kits work?

Findings show radon tests of less than 90 days are imprecise up to 99 percent of the time. A new study finds the only reliable way to measure exposure to radon gas is with a long-term testing kit, 90 or more days. Researchers placed two test kits, a short term (five-day) and long term (90-day) in the same homes.

Is Airthings accurate?

The Pro boasts an impressive 7% accuracy after 24-hours and less-than-5% after a week. All Airthings detectors have been tested directly against the AlphaGuard reference device. Because it’s a professional detector with high accuracy and sensitivity, it is the gold standard to which radon detectors or tests are held.

Does radon stay in the basement?

Also, once the windows, doors, or vents are closed, the radon concentration returns to the previous level within hours according to EPA studies. FACT: Its concentration is usually the highest in basements, simply because it emanates out of the soil through the basement.

How accurate is Airthings wave plus?

The Wave Plus, like most sensors, doesn’t provide truly precise measurements, and in this case, Airthings’ offering can achieve accuracy within 10% after the first seven days, and within 5% after two months.

What is a safe reading for radon gas?

4.0 pCi/L
What constitutes an acceptable or safe radon level? According to the EPA, the maximum “acceptable” level of radon is 4.0 pCi/L, but even that level is not “safe”, per se. The EPA strongly recommends you consider radon mitigation between levels 2.0 and 4.0.

Where can you buy radon testing kits?

Radon test kits can be purchased at most larger hardware stores, from a Certified Radon Service Provider, or online directly from a laboratory/manufacturer.

How do I get a radon test kit?

You can buy test kits at home improvement stores, hardware stores, or online. To order a test kit over the phone, call the National Radon Hotline at 1-800-SOS-RADON (1-800-767-7236). If your home has a radon level of 4 or higher, it’s time to take action.

How much is a radon test kit?

To test for radon in your home, many kits are available both in stores, such as Home Depot, and online and can cost anywhere from $13 to $30. For example, the First Alert RD1 Radon Gas Test Kit costs $13 to $23.

How often do I need to test for radon?

Many experts recommend having a radon test performed every two years, but if you find yourself spending more time in a lower level of your house than usual, are planning a renovation, or notice any new cracks or gaps in your home’s structure, testing before then is also a good idea.