Radon is a dangerous substance that can be present in homes. The problem of radon is under represented and many homeowners do not even understand the importance of radon gas testing. The Surgeon General has warned that radon is currently the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Because radon is such a damaging and dangerous substance, it is important to understand the symptoms, effects, and how to properly test for its occurrence.
The dangerousness of radon gases
Although many homeowners have heard of radon gases before, few actually understand how dangerous it can be. It can actually be compared to breathing in the air from radioactive sites. A family whose home has radon levels of 4 pCi per l is exposed to approximately 35 times as much radiation as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission would allow if that family was standing next to the fence of a radioactive waste site. What is the difference? Why do people have to remain a specified distance from radioactive waste sites, but do not have to worry about radon gas testing in their own homes? The answer is simple. They do. Radon gas testing is one of the most important home inspection tests you can have completed.
Short term versus long term radon gas testing
You will also find that there are various tests available for radon gas testing. Eventually, each of these tests should be completed. However, it is possible to start with the short term test to gain a better awareness of the home?s air quality. If the short term radon gas testing produces results higher than average, a long term test should be completed. The long term test should always be completed by a professional radon testing company, for the best results. Although heightened results on the long term test do not always mean that radon mitigation services will be needed, it is a possibility.
Choosing the right radon mitigation service
If your short term and long term radon gas tests showed increased levels of radon, you will need radon mitigation and abatement services. With multiple mitigation and abatement services available, it is important to choose the right one. Choosing the right service will ensure that the radon gases are reduced below the heightened level and that they do not return to a dangerous level. One of the most common forms of mitigation includes passive systems. Passive systems of mitigation have been shown to be capable of reducing indoor radon levels by more than 50%. When radon ventilation fans are added, radon levels can be reduced further. For additional information about different passive radon mitigation services, work with your local radon mitigation company.
The importance of regular testing
Most cases of increased radon levels are mitigated with passive services. This means that they are blocked our and fanned out, to prevent the dangerous gases from entering the household. It is possible, however, that these gases return. If the initial entry point reopens or a new entry point is created, the dangerous gases can make it back into the house. If you have had increased radon testing limits or a previous problem with radon gases, it is important and necessary to test regularly. You can keep up routine testing with short term tests, but you will also want to schedule long term tests by a professional radon company every couple of years. Because of the extremely dangerous effects of radon, ensure that this becomes a part of your routine house care.
Breathing in large amounts of radon is very similar to standing next to a radioactive site for many hours. Yet, many homeowners are unaware of the possibility of radon gases within their own homes and breathing areas. Some radon testing can be completed at home, within a short term basis. However, if you have had previous radon level problems, you will want to work with a radon testing company to regularly monitor levels. They will provide you with testing and mitigation information, as well as increase your overall knowledge of the importance of radon gas testing.