If you’re wondering about the levels of radon in your home, you’re not alone. There are serious dangers associated with continuous exposure to radon. In fact, statistics show that about 6% of homes throughout the United States have homes that are either at or above the EPA’s action level. It’s important to know that homes with high levels of radon are extremely dangerous. Considering that, it’s important to have radon testing conducted within your home. With that in mind, here are three tips to follow while preparing for a radon test.
- Leave Windows and Doors Shut Before Testing
While many learn the importance of keeping home openings closed before a radon test, there are misconceptions. One of the biggest misconceptions is how long to keep windows and doors shut. Experts recommend that you leave these openings shut for at least 24 hours before testing begins. This way, you can rest assured that test results are accurate without interference from the outside air. - Turn Ceiling Fans Off
Another important but easily forgettable tip for how to prepare for a radon test involves your ceiling fans. It’s important that you leave your ceiling fans off before any official radon testing begins. In addition, this helps to ensure that you receive accurate radon test results. That being said, ceiling fans can be operated in rooms where no radon test monitors are needed. - Setting the Right Temperature
You’ll also want to make sure that the temperature throughout your home is within the proper range. It’s generally recommended that your home is at least within the range of 68 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. Having extremely cold or hot homes could potentially interfere with radon testing results.
In closing, testing for radon in your home is extremely important. Numerous studies have found that nearly 20,000 annual lung cancer deaths are directly caused by exposure to radon. In addition, exposure to radon is the second most common cause of lung cancer throughout the United States. Testing for radon can help ensure that your home remains safe. While it’s true that radon is present within every home, you’ll want to know how high these levels are.