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Testing for Radon

Why should you test your home for radon?

Because radon is the second leading cause of lunch cancer in the U.S.

Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas that can enter your home from the ground through cracks in your foundation. It is present indoors and out, but can increase to dangerous levels inside a home during the winter when the frozen ground traps radon in the soil. A well-insulated home can pull in higher concentrations of the gas.

High radon levels measure at 4 picocuries per liter (4 pCi/L) and above.

According to the Department of Environmental Protection, an estimated 40 percent of Pennsylvania homes have radon levels higher than 4 pCi/L. Forty-nine of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties have a predicted average indoor level greater than 4 pCi/L.

Testing is the only way to know if your home has high levels of radon. An easy at-home test kit can be purchased at hardware or home improvement stores for about $30. You could also hire a state-certified testing company.

If high levels of radon are determined by testing, contact a certified radon mitigation contractor to install a radon reduction system in your home.

January is National Radon Action Month. Protect yourself and your loved ones. Do a home radon test as soon as possible.