The only way to know what the Radon levels are within your home is to conduct a radon test. There are two types of tests that can be performed, a Short Term radon test and a Long Term radon test.
Short Term Radon Test
A short term test is defined by the EPA as a test lasting no less than 48 hours in duration. These types of tests can be conducted using many different methods including charcoal canisters designed for this application or specialized testing equipment. Pandion Property Inspections LLC uses a CRM (Constant Radon Monitor). This piece of equipment is an electronic device that actively tracks and records radon levels by sampling the air every 60 minutes. Within this device is an environmental module that also records air temperature, relative humidity, CO2, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and a motion sensor. This helps determine if changes in Radon levels within the home are a direct result of atmospheric changes or tampering, such as opening a window where the test is being conducted.
Long Term Radon Test
Long Term tests are conducted over a period of not less than 90 days. Alpha track and electret ion chamber detectors are typically used for tests of this nature. These types of testing equipment are typically used by professionals. The longer the testing period, the more data is collected. This can give you a year round average and can be used to confirm short-term test results.
Hire a Professional
Although there are “DIY” Radon testing kits available through government agencies and large box home improvement stores, it is always best to hire a licensed professional. In Colorado, a specialized license is required for professionals that test for radon and for those that install radon mitigation systems. To attain these licenses, a tester or mitigator must take training courses approved by the NRSB (National Radon Safety Board) or the NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program), take a proctored exam, and be able to show proficiency in the use of their equipment and reading the results to become certified. Once certification has been acquired, then the application for a license can be filed. National certification also comes with continuing education responsibilities. The entire process is quite challenging. This in and of itself separates the true pros from the scammers.
Pandion Property Inspections LLC carries an NRSB Certification. I have taken a multitude of continuing education courses and am licensed by the State of Colorado as a Radon Professional.
