Radon gas is an invisible threat that can build up inside Phoenix homes. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. The good news is that Radon Testing Phoenix options make it simple and affordable to detect high radon levels so you can take action to reduce this health hazard. This article takes a closer look at radon basics and testing solutions tailored for Phoenix residences.
Understanding the Radon Risk in Phoenix
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It escapes through small cracks and openings in the foundation to enter homes and other buildings. The U.S. EPA has identified radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
Unlike other parts of the country, radon risk is prevalent across a wide area of Phoenix due to the unique geology of Central Arizona. Homes built in the Phoenix Metro area have roughly a 1 in 3 chance of elevated radon according to EPA estimates. The only way to determine if radon is accumulating in dangerous amounts is to conduct testing.
Overview of Radon Testing Devices
Radon Testing Phoenix providers offer easy home test kits you can use yourself or professional radon inspection services. Testing devices measure the average radon level in your home air over a set period of time. There are a few main types:
Short-Term Radon Test Kits
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Inexpensive do-it-yourself option
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2-7 day testing period
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Charcoal canisters or electret ion chamber detectors
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Screening method to determine if further long-term testing is needed
Long-Term Radon Test Kits
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90+ day testing period for more accurate reading
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Alpha track detectors or electret ion chambers
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Confirms if radon reduction system is warranted
Continuous Radon Monitors
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Used by radon professionals during inspection
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Electronic device continuously records and displays radon readings
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Results in about 48 hours
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Useful for quick confirmation of high levels
Best Practices for Conducting Radon Testing
Conducting a valid radon test requires careful placement and minimal interference with the device:
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Test kits should be put in the lowest livable area of the home that is used regularly
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Don’t test in rarely-used spaces like crawl spaces or unfinished basements
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Maintain closed-house conditions during entire test period
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Keep doors and windows closed except for normal use
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Leave test kit undisturbed until it’s time to send for lab analysis
Testing during the fall or winter months will produce the most meaningful results for Phoenix homes. Changing weather conditions and closed-up houses lead to maximum radon accumulation at this time.
Options for Professional Radon Inspection Services
For home buyers or concerned homeowners who want the most accurate analysis, professional Radon Testing Phoenix services are available from certified inspectors. They use continuous monitors and follow strict EPA protocols to measure radon in the home. A thorough inspection includes:
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Initial meeting to discuss radon risks and testing procedures
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Strategic placement of continuous monitors throughout home’s living space
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Follow up within 48 hours to retrieve devices for rapid lab analysis
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Detailed inspection report explaining radon readings and next steps
Professional inspectors can also provide additional services:
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Testing other health hazards like mold, asbestos and water quality
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Identifying radon pathways and recommending reduction solutions
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Verifying mitigation system performance through post-remediation testing
Reducing Radon Levels in Phoenix Homes
The EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon whenever levels exceed 4 pCi/L. Effective mitigation systems in Phoenix homes involve:
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Sealing entry points and creating a barrier between the soil and home using plastic sheeting
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Installing a suction pipe and fan system (sub-slab depressurization) to vent radon from below the foundation
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Checking radon levels again soon after to ensure mitigation was successful
Lowering high radon levels greatly reduces lung cancer risk for household members. And fixing this invisible home health threat can also increase real estate value.
Be Proactive About Radon Risk
Radon gas is prevalent across the Phoenix area, but easy-to-use Radon Testing Phoenix devices make it simple to detect. Homeowners and home buyers should consider periodic testing every few years. And if purchasing a home built before 1990 that hasn’t been tested before, make radon screening a priority. Addressing this toxic gas through testing and mitigation improves health, safety and comfort for you and your family.
