It is important to be a responsible home owner and aware of the dangers that lurk in your house.
Radon is one of the most dangerous hazards that goes unnoticed. It’s a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas.
It is simple to test for radon in your home and to take the necessary steps to lower its levels, if they are high.
What is Radon?
Radon gas is produced by the decay of certain chemicals found in soils and rocks. Radon is found in all environments, but its levels are generally low and non-harmful.
Radon can accumulate in enclosed areas, like homes, and reach dangerous levels.
How does Radon enter your home?
Radon gas can enter through foundations, walls, and floors. Also, it can enter through the gaps between suspended floors and service pipe. Radon can build up in any enclosed area, but is most likely to do so in homes that have a basement level or lower floor in direct contact with soil.
Certain areas and workplaces may be more exposed to asbestos, including those in or near oil refineries, mines and subway tunnels.
Health Risks associated with Radon Exposure
Radon gas can lead to lung cancer when inhaled.
Radon is the second most common cause of lung cancer in the United States, after tobacco.
Around six million US homes are estimated to have radon levels above the EPA standards of four picocuries/liter.
Testing for Radon
It is simple and cheap to test for radon. The EPA recommends that every home be tested for radon regardless of its location. A radon testing kit can be purchased online or at a local hardware store.
The kit will include instructions on how to place it and for how long, typically 2 to 90 days. The kit is then sent to a laboratory for analysis after the test. The lab will then send you a detailed report on the amount of radon in your home.
Reducing Radon Levels
It is important to act quickly if your home has high radon levels. Although some homeowners can reduce radon levels, it’s best to hire an expert to do the job.
Professionals are qualified to measure and reduce radon in your home. They are equipped with the expertise and knowledge to determine the source of radon in your home and recommend the best radon-reduction system. The system can be installed correctly, and they will ensure it works properly to reduce the radon level.
Radon is an immediate health risk that must be addressed. Consider getting your home tested for radon sooner than later if you haven’t had it tested in a while or it has been a few years.