How Is Radon Tested?
You can’t see, touch, or smell radon gas. Because of that, the only reliable way to know whether your home has elevated radon levels is to test for it. So, how is radon tested? Homeowners and inspectors commonly use two methods: charcoal test kits and continuous monitoring devices. Each option has its own advantages and drawbacks.
Charcoal Radon Test Kits
Many homeowners choose charcoal test kits because they are affordable and easy to use. You can purchase these kits from stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Amazon, with prices typically starting around $15.
The testing process is straightforward. First, you place the charcoal packets in the recommended areas of the home and leave them undisturbed for 48 hours. After the test period ends, you seal the packets in the provided packaging and mail them to a laboratory for analysis. Most labs return results within 5–7 business days.
Benefits of Charcoal Testing
- Low cost
- Easy setup process
- Widely available
- Accurate when used properly
Drawbacks of Charcoal Testing
Although charcoal tests can provide accurate readings, they may not be the best option during a real estate transaction. Since the test relies on manually placed packets, someone could potentially tamper with them. For example:
- The packets could be moved outside
- Someone could replace them with new packets
- The test environment could be altered during the process
As a result, buyers may question the reliability of the results. If you are purchasing a home and want greater confidence in the findings, a more secure testing method may be a better choice.
Continuous Radon Monitoring
For real estate transactions, many professionals recommend continuous radon monitoring systems. These devices provide hourly radon readings throughout the testing period, offering a much more detailed picture of radon activity within the home.
How Continuous Monitoring Works
Continuous monitors track radon levels in real time and record fluctuations throughout the day. This data helps identify whether levels ever rise above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L. Unlike charcoal tests, which only provide an average result, continuous monitors show exactly when spikes occur.
Benefits of Continuous Monitoring
- Provides hourly radon readings
- Detects spikes in radon levels
- Produces immediate results without lab delays
- Identifies possible tampering
- Includes backup batteries during power outages
Additionally, these systems can detect interruptions such as power failures or unplugging the device. Because of this, buyers and agents gain greater confidence in the integrity of the test results.
Drawbacks of Continuous Monitoring
The biggest downside is cost. Professional continuous monitoring tests usually range from $150 to $200. However, many homeowners consider the added reliability and peace of mind well worth the investment, especially during a real estate transaction.
Why Professional Radon Testing Matters
The information collected during a continuous monitoring test can help homeowners better understand how radon levels fluctuate over time. That is one reason why Home Inspection Carolina exclusively uses continuous monitoring systems.
Additionally, homeowners should always hire a certified radon professional. Certifications from organizations recognized by your state, NRPP, or AARST help ensure the inspector has proper training in both radon testing procedures and device placement.
Protect Your Home and Family
Radon exposure can pose serious health risks over time, which makes proper testing incredibly important. Whether you choose a charcoal kit or professional continuous monitoring, testing your home is the only way to know if radon is present.
For more information about radon and how it can affect your home, visit North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
