Do You Really Need a Radon Testing Kit?
If you’ve never tested your home for radon, you’re not alone. But with more states recognizing radon as a serious indoor air hazard, radon testing is becoming a must for safety — and for property value.
🎯 A radon testing kit is the first step to knowing if your home is affected by this invisible gas.
This guide breaks down what types of kits are available, how they work, and when to consider professional help.
What Is a Radon Testing Kit?
A radon testing kit is a device used to measure the level of radon gas inside your home. It helps determine whether your home is above the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter).
There are two main types:
- Short-Term Test Kits (2 to 7 days)
- Long-Term Test Kits (90+ days)
Short-Term vs Long-Term Kits
| Feature | Short-Term Kits | Long-Term Kits |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2–7 days | 90+ days |
| Cost | $15 – $40 | $25 – $100 |
| Best For | Quick checks | Seasonal accuracy |
| Result Delivery | Mail-in lab (or digital) | Mail-in lab (some digital) |
| EPA Certified? | Varies by brand | More reliable if certified |
🧪 Popular Options:
- First Alert Radon Gas Test Kit
- Airthings Corentium Home Monitor (digital)
- AccuStar and Radonova (mail-in charcoal)
How to Use a Radon Testing Kit
- Place the kit at the lowest livable level (usually the basement).
- Avoid windows, vents, and drafty areas.
- Leave it undisturbed for the required time.
- Mail it to the lab (or read it digitally if applicable).
- Wait for results, which usually arrive within 3–10 days.
Pros and Cons of Using a Kit
✅ Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Private
- Easy to do yourself
⚠️ Cons:
- Easy to misuse (e.g., wrong placement)
- May give false sense of security
- Results not always valid in real estate transactions
When to Call a Professional
If your home:
- Tests above 2.0 pCi/L on a short-term test
- Has a complex layout or crawl space
- Is being bought or sold
- Requires mitigation
Then it’s time to get a certified radon professional involved.
How Radon Quote Helps
We connect homeowners with EPA-licensed radon testers and mitigation experts. Instead of guessing with an over-the-counter kit, get peace of mind with:
- 📍 Local professionals
- 📈 Accurate, lab-grade testing
- ⏱️ Fast quotes and monitored timelines
Call to Action
Don’t wonder if your home is safe. Take the first step today.