How to Troubleshoot Common Issues with Radon Testing

What is Radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Radon gas enters homes and buildings through cracks and openings in the foundation. Long-term exposure to radon can increase one’s risk of developing lung cancer. The only way to know if radon levels are high in a home is to test for it.

Why Test for Radon?

The Surgeon General and the EPA recommend testing all homes for radon. Testing is the only way to detect if radon levels are high, as the gas itself cannot be detected by human senses. Homes with high radon levels should take action to reduce concentrations through improved ventilation or mitigation systems. Taking steps to fix high radon levels can prevent unnecessary radon exposure and lung cancer risk.

Types of Radon Tests

There are different options available for radon testing in Virginia in a home:

Short-Term Radon Test Kits

• Inexpensive and quick (2-7 days)
• Can have spikes from changing weather/closed house conditions
• If high, follow up with long-term kit

Long-Term Radon Test Kits

• More reliable, 90-day average exposure
• Accounts for radon fluctuations
• Used for annual monitoring

Continuous Radon Monitors

• Advanced monitors to track real-time changes
• Records and downloads data to a computer
• Used to confirm mitigation system performance

Preparing for a Radon Test

Proper testing conditions are key to getting accurate radon results. Here are tips to prepare a home for radon testing:

Closed House Conditions

• Keep all windows/doors closed 12 hours before and during test
• Operate fans, furnaces, air conditioners normally
• Maintain closed house for duration of short-term tests

Place Detector Correctly

• Away from drafts, high heat/humidity
• 4 inches from other objects for air flow
• 20-39 inches off ground in low-traffic area
• 50% -75% humidity ideal

Typical Testing Areas

• Lowest livable level of home
• Room occupied for extended periods
• Bedroom for long-term kit placing

Troubleshooting Common Radon Test Issues

Even with proper test preparation, sometimes tests get compromised or problems occur. Here is how to identify and troubleshoot some typical radon testing problems:

Unexpected/Questionable Results

Issue: Short-term results over 4 pCi/L. Long-term results significantly lower than short-term.

Solution: Re-test with a long-term kit for 90 days under closed house. This will give a more accurate average.

Compromised Testing Conditions

Issue: Closed house not maintained due to weather, occupants entering/exiting home frequently.

Solution: Retest under strict closed house. Post warnings/signs to minimize openings.

Damaged or Dislodged Detector

Issue: Pet/child tampers with tester. The device falls or gets immersed in water.

Solution: If test kit is comprised, reorder replacement to retest. Review detector placement and secure if needed.

Testing Interference

Issue: Detector placed too close to object. HVAC drafts blowing on device. High humidity/heat impacting device.

Solution: Review placement guidance and move device away from drafts and other objects. Maintain ideal testing humidity/temps.

Post-Mitigation Testing Still High

Issue: After installing a mitigation system, follow up testing still shows high radon readings.

Solution: Consult mitigation contractor to inspect seals, ventilation piping, and fans. Repair any issues found. Retest monthly until reduced.

Interpreting Radon Test Results

Understanding radon levels and risks empowers homeowners to make informed decisions about radon mitigation and retesting needs:

Radon Levels

• 2 pCi/L or below: Acceptable risk level
• 2-4 pCi/L: Consider fixing between 2-4 pCi/L
• 4 pCi/L or above: Fix recommended

Radon Risks

• No known safe radon level, some risk at any exposure
• EPA estimates 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually from radon
• Radon is leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers

Retesting Needs

• Retest every 2 years and after major home renovations
• Routine testing important even if initial results low
• If making repairs between 4-10 pCi/L, retest to confirm reduced

Finding a Radon Measurement Professional

Seeking an experienced radon tester is key to reliable results. There are two professional credentials to look for:

NRPP Certification

The National Radon Proficiency Program examines a tester’s knowledge and reviews performance. NRPP-certified professionals must retest regularly to maintain certification.

NRSB Licensing

States may additionally license radon testers. Check if your state provides licensing/certification through the National Radon Safety Board.

Ask testers about their credentials, experience, services offered, and pricing before selecting.

Radon Myths & Facts

There are some common radon myths. Make sure you have the facts:

Myth: There’s no need to test in my area or if my neighbor’s test was low.

Fact: Radon levels can vary dramatically across buildings even on the same street. The only way to know your radon levels is to test.

Myth: Radon only affects certain types of homes.

Fact: Radon can enter any type of building regardless of foundation type, age, or quality of construction.

Myth: Short-term test kits give definitive radon results.

Fact: Long-term testing for at least 90 days gives a more reliable average radon level in a home.

Myth: Radon is only a risk if you smoke.

Fact: Radon exposure causes lung cancer in non-smokers too. About 21,000 lung cancer deaths yearly are radon-related.

Myth: Government testing recommendations are optional.

Fact: Radon testing is recommended by the EPA and Surgeon General based on scientific evidence of health risks at certain exposure levels.

Conclusion

Regular testing, proper test conditions, and accurate results are key to assess radon risks in a home. When high radon is discovered through testing, it presents a chance to install mitigation and reduce future radon exposure. Working with experienced radon measurement professionals that provide NRPP or NRSB credentials helps ensure reliable testing. Correct information on radon health effects and interpreting test findings is important for homeowners to understand to fully protect their household. Implementing recommendations like testing every 2 years can catch any rising radon trends before dangerous levels occur. With the right radon testing knowledge, homeowners can feel empowered in managing this invisible health hazard.