The Ohio Homeowner’s Guide to Radon Testing

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can be found in most homes. It is a leading cause of lung cancer and has become a hot topic of discussion among homeowners. Understanding how to detect and mitigate potential presence of the gas is vital to keeping your home and its inhabitants safe.

In Ohio, radon testing is mandatory for all homes sold within the state. As a homeowner, this means it’s important to invest in a radon test. Radon can be easily detected with a radon test that collects air samples over a period of two or more days. The test results will indicate the levels of the gas present within the home and coordinate any potential next steps.

For homeowners looking to test radon levels in their home, the process is relatively straightforward. Radon testing can be conducted in two different ways—short-term and long-term. Short-term tests take two to seven days to gather results. Long-term tests take at least 90 days.

How to Prepare for Radon Testing

Given the health risks associated with radon, it’s important to take the right steps when preparing for a test. Before bringing in a professional to test radon levels in the home, it’s best to take a few preparative measures. Open all windows and doors at least twelve hours before a short-term test. During a long-term test, maintain normal living conditions in the home, such as running fans and other appliances.

In the months leading up to a radon test, keep basement doors and windows closed to prevent radon from entering the home. When the radon test is complete, the results will indicate how much of the gas is present in the home. Depending on the results, there are ways to reduce and eliminate the gas safely.

Minimizing Radon Levels Through Mitigation

If the radon test reveals levels above the EPA standard, it’s important to plan for a radon mitigation system right away. Radon mitigation systems draw the gas from under the home and expel it safely into the atmosphere, reducing the risk of health problems.

As part of the mitigation process, a certified professional will undertake several measurements and install either an active sub-slab depressurization system or passive system, which consists primarily of pipes and fans that help reduce radon concentrations. It’s important to hire a trained certified professional to conduct the mitigation system; these types of systems demand a great level of skill and attention.

When the mitigation process is complete, follow up testing is usually required to ensure the system is properly working. Radon testing then can become part of the regular routine in preserving a healthy home.

What to Consider When Investing in Radon Testing

• A basic radon test shouldn’t cost more than $150.
• Always hire a certified professional to conduct the radon mitigation process.
• Complete both short-term and long-term radon tests as part of the evaluation process.
• Follow post-mitigation testing to ensure the system is properly working.
• Create a maintenance routine to check on radon levels regularly.

Conclusion

Radon testing and mitigation is an important part of maintaining a healthy home. Investing in radon testing and staying up-to-date on the results enables homeowners to keep their family safe from the potential risks associated with the gas. By understanding the basics of radon and how to properly prepare for a radon tests, you can create a safe home environment.