Radon Measurements


tl_files/sites/radon/rad72.jpgAlthough the concentration of uranium in the soil in your area may offer you some rough idea of the levels of radon in your home, the ONLY way to know for sure is to test. Commercial options most readily available in Canada are charcoal canisters, electrets and alpha track detectors. You can purchase charcoal canisters at your local hardware store. These detectors are exposed to the air in a home for a specified number of days or months and then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Our Testing Procedures

Our short-term (normally 48-hours) tests are done with the RAD7 continuous radon monitor (shown above), in accordance with EPA and Health Canada standards. RAD7 operates by electrostatic collection of alpha-emitters with spectral analysis and provides radon levels at 30-min intervals. This data is stored, and then analyzed afterwards for average and peak concentrations. Once analyzed, the homeowner will receive a copy of the data, along with information regarding if their radon concentration is dangerous.

The homeowners are asked to maintain closed-building conditions for 12 hours prior to and during the measurement. Closed-building conditions involve ensuring that windows on all levels and external doors are kept closed for the duration of the test, except during normal entry and exit. Any fans that move air from the outside to the inside of the house must be turned off, and air conditioners must be turned to the "recycle air" setting. Normal operation of air-to-air heat exchangers may continue. If measurements are taken with the windows open, radon concentrations may appear lower then what is actually present.

Our Testing is Free

We're in it for the research. Many companies charge for radon testing, and if you plan on a "do-it-yourself" test, you will still have to purchase a passive charcoal canister. Our testing is absolutely free, and with increased awareness of radon exposure, may become mandatory for insurance reasons. In Maine, legislation has already passed making radon testing mandatory by 2012.

Get Your Home Tested NOW While Its Free

Once it becomes mandatory, free radon testing will be very difficult and/or impossible to find. Do it now, help the health of your family and your wallet.