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Radon Testing

Walsh Home Inspections offers two methods of residential radon testing: liquid scintillation canisters (MA only) and continuous radon monitors (MA & RI). If you’re considering whether or not to do radon testing, here are some facts to know:

  • Radon is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in U.S.
  • The EPA and U.S. Surgeon General recommend testing all homes being purchased, including those with existing mitigation systems.
  • Radon may be present in a home regardless of its age, basement style or location.
Short Term Radon Testing Checklist

For reliable test results, follow this Radon Testing Checklist carefully. Testing for radon is not complicated. Improper testing may yield inaccurate results and require another test. Disturbing or interfering with the test device, or with closed-house conditions, may invalidate the test results and is illegal in some states.

Before

Conducting A Radon Test

  • Notify the occupants of the importance of proper testing conditions. Give the occupants written instructions or a copy of this Guide and explain the directions carefully.
  • When doing a short-term test ranging from 2-4 days, it is important to maintain closed-house conditions for at least 12 hours before the beginning of the test and during the entire test period.
  • If the house has an active radon-reduction system, make sure the vent fan is operating properly. If the fan is not operating properly, have it (or ask to have it) repaired and then test.
  • Closed-house conditions means keeping all windows closed, keeping doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and not operating fans or other machines which bring in air from outside. Fans that are part of a radon-reduction system or small exhaust fans operating for only short periods of time may run during the test.

During

A Radon Test

  • Maintain closed-house conditions during the entire time of a short term test, especially for tests shorter than one week in length.
  • Operate the home’s heating and cooling systems normally during the test. For tests lasting less than one week, operate only air-conditioning units which re-circulate interior air.
  • Do not disturb the test device at any time during the test.
  • If a radon-reduction system is in place, make sure the system is working properly and will be in operation during the 
entire radon test.

After

A Radon Test

  • If an elevated level is found, fix the home. Contact a qualified radon-reduction contractor about lowering the radon level. EPA recommends that you fix the home when the radon level is 4 pCi/L or more.