January is recognized as Radon Action Month, a vital initiative aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of radon gas in our homes and the importance of testing and remediation. Here, we’ll explore what radon is, how to test for it, and the steps you can take to remediate high levels to ensure the safety of your family and loved ones.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, and colorless gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, gaps around service pipes, and other openings. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, making it essential to monitor and control its presence in our living spaces.
Why is Radon Action Month Important?
Radon Action Month serves as a reminder to homeowners and renters alike to take proactive measures regarding radon testing. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon is responsible for thousands of lung cancer deaths each year, second only to smoking. By testing our homes and mitigating high radon levels, we can significantly reduce the health risks associated with this hazardous gas.
How to Test for Radon
- Purchase a Radon Test Kit: You can find DIY radon testing kits at home improvement stores or online. There are two main types of testing: short-term (2-90 days) and long-term (greater than 90 days). Short-term tests give you a quick read on radon levels, while long-term tests provide a more accurate assessment.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure you adhere to the testing kit instructions to achieve valid results. Typically, this involves placing the device in the lowest lived-in level of your home, away from drafts, windows, and doors.
- Collect and Send for Analysis: After the testing period, send the kit to the designated laboratory for analysis. You should receive results within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the lab.
- Interpret the Results: The EPA recommends taking action if your radon level is 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Even levels between 2.0 pCi/L and 4.0 pCi/L warrant consideration of mitigation, especially for long-term exposure.
How to Remediate High Levels of Radon
- Hire a Professional: While some homeowners may tackle radon mitigation on their own, it’s often best to contact a certified radon mitigation professional. They have the expertise to provide effective solutions tailored to your home.
- Common Mitigation Techniques:
- Active Soil Depressurization (ASD): This is the most common method, involving the installation of a vent pipe and fan system that pulls radon from beneath the home and discharges it outside.
- Sealing Cracks and Openings: While sealing alone won’t eliminate radon, it can reduce the amount of gas that enters your home. Use a polyurethane caulk to seal cracks in floors, walls, and around service pipes.
- Drainage Systems: For homes with significant radon levels, installing a drainage system in the sub-floor, which can drain radon out, can be effective.
- Regular Testing After Mitigation: Once remediation has been completed, it’s important to retest your home to ensure that radon levels have been reduced effectively and to monitor periodically for any changes over time.
Staying Safe
Radon Action Month serves as a crucial reminder for homeowners to be aware of this invisible threat. By understanding what radon is, testing for its presence, and taking appropriate corrective measures, we can safeguard our health and the health of our loved ones. Don’t wait—take action this January to ensure your home and its occupants are radon safe.
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