Maintenance Guides / Safety & Electrical

Test for radon gas

Difficulty: easyTime: 15 minsEst. Cost: $15 - $40

Why it matters

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. It's an invisible, odorless gas that can seep into your basement or lower levels from the soil. EPA recommends retesting every two years and after any HVAC, foundation, or basement work.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Buy a short-term radon test kit (EPA-approved, ~$15–$40 at hardware stores or online).

  • 2

    Close all windows and exterior doors for 12 hours before starting the test.

  • 3

    Place the kit in the lowest livable area of your home — basement if finished, otherwise main floor — 20 inches off the floor, away from drafts.

  • 4

    Leave it undisturbed for the duration specified (typically 48 to 96 hours).

  • 5

    Seal the kit and mail it to the lab on the indicated date; results arrive in 1–2 weeks.

  • 6

    If results are 4.0 pCi/L or higher, contact a certified radon mitigation contractor; 2.0–3.9 pCi/L is borderline and warrants a follow-up long-term test.