What are radon testing methods?

The term used in measuring radon is PCi/L (pico Curies per Liter To test your home for radon there is various radon testing equipment available. Typically two types used are a short-term test utilizing a charcoal canister and a long-term test with an alpha-track detector.

My favorite testing devices and the reason I like them is worth going over:

The charcoal cannister is the test I like and use on a regular basis. Homeowners can use this device as well as the professional. The charcoal device is used for short-term testing. Normally it is run for two to seven days and must be read in the laboratory. It requires no power to operate and is in a small container. The radon diffuses onto the charcoal and after the test is complete it must be measured within six days by the laboratory. The short span of time is directly related to the test equipments capability to produce accurate results. Because radon has a short life span and decays into other properties. In particular lead and bismuth. The test equipment interpets radon levels by measuring the gama particles from Lead and Bismuth.

The charcoal test can be biased due to temperature extremes and excessive air flow. In particular the last twelve hours can bias the test.

The advantages are the kit is compact, easily mailed to the lab, used for the short term of forty-eight hours, requires no power and is Accurate.

We recommend the charcoal canister because of the advantages mentioned, and it is reasonable in cost.

The other test we use is the Alpha Track Detector. The price for this longer term test device is more than reasonable. Because of its small size it is not objectionable to have in place for several months. The detector records damage from the Alpha particles. The radiaton will leave pock marks on the plastic detector. When place under a microscope they can be counted. Depending on the time the test is installed and the amount of damage to the disk the lab can determine the amount of radon present. Think pits in the plastic. Both of the devices aforementioned has the same advantages.

There are other devices we could discuss, however I think from a simple perspective these two are perfect for most people. I highly support the use of these two dtectors for the average homeowner.

The reason for testing will determine the type of test you use.

As an example if you are buying a house you should have it tested. The same would apply if you are selling. If you are selling a home the buyer may want the home tested before closing.

There is no quetion that the home you live in, current or future, should be tested.