How Can You Measure Radon Gas in the Home?
Radon gas is an invisible, odourless, and tasteless radioactive gas that can pose serious health risks if present in high concentrations in our homes. As a naturally occurring byproduct of uranium decay in soil and rock, radon gas can seep into buildings through foundation cracks, gaps in walls, or even water sources.
Prolonged exposure to high radon gas levels has been linked to lung cancer, making it essential for homeowners to test their indoor air. At Peerless Air, we understand the importance of indoor air quality and provide solutions and advice to help you measure and mitigate radon gas effectively.
But how exactly can we measure radon gas in the home? In this guide, we’ll walk through the different testing methods, when to test, and what to do if we find high levels of radon.
Why Should We Measure Radon Gas Levels?
Understanding the risk posed by radon is the first step in protecting our households. Health Canada, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that all homes be tested for radon gas, regardless of geographic location or building type.
While some areas have a higher natural presence of radon gas, the gas can accumulate in any home, new or old, with or without a basement. Since radon gas levels can fluctuate due to changes in weather, ventilation, and seasonal conditions, regular testing ensures we maintain a safe living environment.
Choosing the Right Radon Gas Testing Method
There are two primary types of radon gas testing: short-term tests and long-term tests. Each method has its benefits, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and concerns.
Short-Term Radon Gas Testing
Short-term radon gas tests provide quick results and are ideal for an initial assessment of indoor radon gas levels. These tests typically last from two to seven days and use activated charcoal or electret ion chambers to measure radon levels. The process is simple: we place the test kit in the lowest lived-in area of your home (such as a basement or ground-level room), leave it undisturbed for the recommended duration, and then send it to a laboratory for analysis.
Pros:
Fast results (usually within a few days)
Easy to use and widely available at hardware stores and online
Affordable
Cons:
Only provides a snapshot of radon gas levels at one point in time
Can be affected by temporary conditions like weather and ventilation
Long-Term Radon Gas Testing
Long-term radon tests measure radon levels over 90 days to a year. These tests use alpha track detectors or electret ion chambers, which provide a more accurate representation of your home’s radon gas levels over time. Because radon gas levels fluctuate daily and seasonally, long-term testing gives a better overall picture of exposure.
Pros:
More accurate than short-term tests
Provides an average radon level over an extended period
Less affected by temporary conditions
Cons:
Takes longer to get results
Slightly more expensive than short-term tests
Using a Continuous Radon Gas Monitor (CRM)
For those who want real-time radon monitoring, electronic continuous radon monitors (CRMs) are our recommended option. These devices provide ongoing measurements, often with digital displays that show radon gas levels over different periods.
Some advanced models connect to smartphones and offer alerts if radon gas levels exceed recommended thresholds. While CRMs tend to be more expensive than traditional test kits, they provide the convenience of continuous tracking and immediate results. We are happy to discuss our preferred radon gas continuous monitor recommendations with you.
When and Where Should We Test for Radon Gas?
To ensure accurate radon measurement, we should follow these best practices:
Test during the colder months when windows and doors are typically closed, as this is when radon gas levels are usually highest.
Place the test in the lowest lived-in area of the home, avoiding kitchens, bathrooms, and areas with excessive airflow like near vents or open windows.
Follow the test kit instructions carefully to ensure valid results.
Conduct follow-up testing if initial results indicate elevated radon gas levels, as a second test helps confirm findings.
What If We Find High Radon Gas Levels?
If your radon gas test results exceed Health Canada’s recommended action level of 200 Bq/m3 (Bq/m3), it’s important not to panic but to take immediate steps to reduce exposure.
Radon Mitigation Strategies
Improve Ventilation – Increasing airflow in the home by opening windows and using fans can help dilute radon concentrations. However, this is not a long-term solution.
Seal Cracks and Openings – Sealing foundation cracks, gaps around pipes, and other entry points can help reduce radon infiltration.
Install a Radon Gas Mitigation System – The most effective method for reducing radon gas is a radon gas mitigation system, such as a sub-slab depressurization system. This involves installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon from beneath the home and release it outdoors.
Use an Enthalpy/Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) – These mechanical ventilation devices improve indoor air quality and can help reduce radon gas levels by exchanging indoor and outdoor air.
Test Water Sources – If your home uses well water, testing for radon in water is also important, as radon can be released into the air when using water for drinking, cooking, or showering.
Conclusion: Make Radon Gas Testing a Priority
Radon gas is a silent but serious health risk that every homeowner should address. Fortunately, testing for radon gas is simple, affordable, and essential for ensuring a safe indoor environment.
Whether using short-term, long-term, or continuous monitoring devices, regular radon gas testing helps us stay informed and take necessary action if needed. If your radon gas levels are high, professional mitigation solutions can effectively reduce exposure and protect your families.
At Peerless Air, we’re committed to helping homeowners create healthier indoor environments. If you have concerns about radon gas levels in your home, we encourage you to test today and take proactive steps to safeguard your health and well-being.
For more information on indoor air quality and radon mitigation solutions, visit Peerless Air.