A Homeowner’s Guide for Detecting and Preventing Radon

As a homeowner you prioritize the safety and comfort of your family. But have you considered the risks posed by radon? This invisible, odorless gas can creep into your home, increasing the risk of lung cancer without you even realizing it.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the EPA. With New Hampshire and neighboring states experiencing some of the highest radon levels in the country, testing and prevention should be a priority for every homeowner.

The good news is that radon doesn’t have to be an uncontrollable threat. With the right knowledge and tools, you can detect, prevent, and mitigate radon in your home. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from understanding the dangers of radon to taking actionable steps to protect your home and loved ones.

Understanding Radon and Its Health Risks

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Outdoors, radon levels are typically harmless because the gas disperses quickly into the air. Indoors, however, it can accumulate to dangerous levels, particularly in enclosed spaces like basements and crawlspaces.

Long-term exposure to radon is a proven cause of lung cancer. For non-smokers, radon is the leading cause of this disease. The EPA estimates that radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S.

Symptoms of radon-related lung cancer—such as a persistent cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing—often appear late, making prevention and early action critical.

Why New England Homes Are at Risk

New England’s geology plays a significant role in radon risk. The region’s granite-rich soil contains higher levels of uranium, making radon a common issue. Additionally, many homes in New Hampshire and Massachusetts have basements, which are natural entry points for radon. During the colder months, heating systems and sealed windows trap the gas inside, increasing exposure.

How to Detect Radon in Your Home

Since radon is both invisible and odorless, testing is the only way to determine if it’s present in your home. Testing is straightforward and affordable, with options ranging from DIY kits to professional services. 

Short-Term Radon Testing: There are quick and affordable ways to get an initial understanding of your home’s radon levels. Short-term tests are designed to measure radon concentration over a period of two to seven days and are widely available at hardware stores or online. To use a short-term test, place the testing device in the lowest livable area of your home, such as a basement or first-floor living space. Avoid high-humidity areas like kitchens and bathrooms, as moisture can affect the accuracy of the test. Once the testing period is complete, you’ll send the device to a laboratory for analysis, and results are typically returned within a few days.

Long-Term Radon Testing: For a more accurate assessment of radon exposure, long-term testing is the preferred method. These tests monitor radon levels over several months, capturing seasonal variations that short-term tests might miss. This is particularly important in New England, where radon levels often rise during colder months due to closed windows and heating systems. Long-term tests provide a comprehensive view of your home’s average radon levels, helping you make more informed decisions about mitigation if needed.

Professional Radon Testing Services: If you prefer professional assistance or need a more detailed evaluation, hiring a certified radon testing professional is a great option. Professionals use sophisticated equipment to detect radon levels and ensure accurate results. This approach is especially beneficial if you’re planning to sell your home, as professional testing adds credibility and transparency for potential buyers. It’s also ideal for homeowners who want expert guidance on next steps if elevated radon levels are detected.

Interpreting Test Results: Understanding your radon test results is essential for determining the need for action. Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends mitigation for levels at or above 4 pCi/L, though it’s worth noting that levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L still pose some risk. Regular testing ensures that your home remains safe over time, particularly if you’ve already taken mitigation measures.

Your Radon Action Plan

Whether you suspect you have radon in your home or just want to take precautions, always start with a test. Conducting a radon test in your home can tell you if your home is safe and if it isn’t, how severe the radon levels are. If your home has high radon levels, you’ll want to start the process of eliminating it to save your health. Read more about those next steps in our next blog, “Effective Ways to Prevent and Mitigate Radon.”