Radon testing
A test is the only way to know your radon level. Here's how testing works and when to bring in a pro.
Radon can't be seen or smelled, and levels vary widely from house to house. Testing tells you whether your home needs a mitigation system, and testing again after a system goes in tells you whether it's working.
Short-term or long-term test?
| Test | How long | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term | 2 to 90 days (often 2 to 7) | A quick first look, real estate deadlines, checking a new system |
| Long-term | More than 90 days | A better picture of your year-round average |
| Continuous monitor | Ongoing, hour by hour | Professional testing and seeing how levels change |
How do I test correctly?
- Test in the lowest lived-in level of the home, such as a finished basement or the main floor if the basement isn't used.
- Keep windows and outside doors closed, apart from normal coming and going, for at least 12 hours before and during a short-term test.
- Place the test away from drafts, exterior walls, kitchens, bathrooms and sump pits, at roughly breathing height.
- Follow the kit's instructions and mail it to the lab promptly.
DIY kit or a professional?
Do-it-yourself kits are a good first step. In Linn County, Linn County Public Health has sold short-term and long-term kits at its Cedar Rapids office, and Iowa's Radon Hotline (1-800-383-5992) offers low-cost kits. A radon measurement professional uses calibrated continuous monitors and handles setup, which helps for real estate deals and for testing after a mitigation system is installed.
My result is high. Now what?
Iowa HHS says results at or above 4 pCi/L are elevated and mitigation is recommended, but not on the strength of a single test. Run a second test to confirm, or average a short-term and long-term result. If it's still high, talk to a credentialed mitigation company.
Prices come from the radon company after they've looked at your home. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
When is the best time to test for radon?
Any time of year works. Radon levels are often higher in winter when the house is closed up, so a winter test can catch a worst case. A long-term test smooths out seasonal swings.
Do new homes need radon testing?
Yes. New homes can have high radon too, even with radon-resistant features. Test every home.
Related services
- Radon mitigation systems
- Crawl space and slab radon
- Radon for home buyers and sellers
- Radon system repair and checks
More background: Iowa radon guide.
Radon test came back high?
Call now and a local radon mitigation company will look at your home and quote a system.