How to Prepare for a Radon Test: Essential Guide
Ensuring that your home is adequately prepared for a compliant radon test is vital to safeguarding your family's health. In this guide, we'll delve into the significance of proper preparation and its pivotal role in obtaining precise results. By following these proactive steps, you can effectively mitigate radon risks and create a safer environment for your loved ones.
We've also created a video available in both English and Spanish to assist you throughout the process. Alternatively, you can refer to the written guidelines provided here for comprehensive instructions.
Preparing for a Radon Test
To ensure the validity of a short-term radon test according to US EPA and ANSI/AARST protocols, specific conditions must be maintained.
• Closed-House Conditions: Maintain closed-house conditions during the test period and for twelve (12) hours prior if the testing period is under 4 days. This includes:
- Closed Windows: Keep windows closed on ALL LEVELS of the building.
- External Doors: Keep external doors closed, opening only for momentary entry and exit.
- Heating/Cooling: Use heating and cooling systems normally, with temperatures set between 65°F to 80°F. Avoid using window units unless in recycle air mode.
- Appliance Usage: Avoid excessive operation of range hoods, dryers, bathroom fans, and any system that may draw air into or out of the building, unless it's the main source of heat.
- Room Fans and Dehumidifiers: Do not use these devices in the same room as the radon testing device.
- Central AC: If the property has central AC, open most or all vents for the HVAC system on all levels.
Other considerations:
• Weather Considerations: Be aware that severe weather, thunderstorms, or heavy rain may extend the test period.
• Inspection and Fees: Upon arrival, premises will be inspected. Failure to comply with closed building conditions may result in a fee for test extension to a 96-hour period, and additional fees.
• Device Handling: Do not touch, move, or manipulate the devices in any way that could interfere with their performance. Tamper indicating controls may have been installed. Test results may be invalidated if closed-house conditions were not maintained or if the detectors were disturbed during the testing period.