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How Do Radon Test Kits Actually Work?

/ Radon Testing and Detection / By

You’ve probably heard radon is something to take seriously. And maybe you’ve even picked up a radon test kit—or thought about it.

But if you’re wondering how those little boxes actually work… you’re not alone!

In this blog, we’ll explain how radon test kits work, why they matter, and when it might be time to get some professional help.

Let’s break it down, simply.

First, What Is Radon?

Radon is a natural gas that comes up from the ground. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it—but it can get into your home through cracks in your foundation, crawlspaces, or gaps around pipes.

The problem? Breathing in high levels of radon over time can increase your risk of lung cancer.
That’s why it’s so important to test your home—even if everything seems fine.

So, What Does a Radon Test Kit Actually Do?

A radon test kit helps you figure out how much radon is in your home’s air.

Think of it like a sponge for gas. You place the kit in a specific room (usually your basement or lowest livable floor), and it quietly collects air samples over time.

Then, depending on the type of kit, either:

  • You send it to a lab for results, or
  • The device gives you a reading right there on the screen (if it’s digital)

That’s it! No loud machines, no drilling, and no need to tear anything up.

Different Types of Radon Test Kits (Made Simple)

There are a few types of radon test kits. Here’s what you need to know about each:

1. Charcoal Test Kits (Short-Term)

🕒 Timeframe: 2–7 days
📦 How it works: Charcoal inside the device absorbs radon from the air. After the test period, you seal the kit and mail it to a lab.
📊 The lab measures how much radon the charcoal soaked up.

Good for: Quick checks or during home buying/selling
Heads-up: Results can vary depending on weather or how the home is used during the test.

2. Alpha Track Detectors (Long-Term)

🕒 Timeframe: 90 days or more
🔬 How it works: Special film inside the device is “scarred” by radon particles over time. These marks are counted in a lab.
📈 You’ll get an average level of radon in your home over a longer period.

Good for: Homeowners who want the big-picture view
Heads-up: Takes a while—but gives you a more accurate reading

3. Digital Radon Monitors

🕒 Timeframe: Real-time, ongoing
💡 How it works: Built-in sensors continuously measure and display your radon levels on a screen. Some models connect to an app on your phone.
📉 You can see changes over days, weeks, or months.

Good for: People who love gadgets and want ongoing updates
Heads-up: These cost more—and not all are lab-certified

Where You Put the Kit Matters

To get the best results, you need to place your radon test kit:

  • In the lowest livable area of your home (like a basement or first floor)
  • At breathing level (not on the floor or too close to the ceiling)
  • Away from drafts, windows, vents, and fans
  • Out of direct sunlight

You should also keep windows and doors closed as much as possible during testing (especially for short-term kits) so the readings are accurate.

What Happens After the Test?

If you’re using a kit that goes to a lab:

  1. Package it up as instructed
  2. Mail it to the testing lab (usually included with the kit)
  3. Wait for your results—often 1–2 weeks
  4. Review your radon level in “picocuries per liter” (pCi/L)

The EPA says 4.0 pCi/L or higher means you should consider taking action—like installing a radon mitigation system.

If you’re using a digital monitor, you’ll see results daily—and watch how they change over time.

When to Call in the Pros

While kits are great for quick checks, sometimes it’s better to let a pro handle it—especially if:

  • You’re buying or selling a home
  • You want fast, lab-certified results
  • Your kit came back high and you want to double-check
  • You’re not sure if you set the kit up correctly

That’s where EnviroPro 360 comes in.

At EnviroPro 360, we offer certified, local radon testing using professional equipment.
No guesswork. No waiting weeks for results. Just clear answers—fast.

Final Thoughts

Radon test kits work by measuring the invisible. Whether it’s charcoal, film, or fancy electronics, they’re all designed to give you one thing: peace of mind.

Testing your home is easy. Understanding your results is important. And getting help when you need it? That’s what we’re here for.

Need help choosing the right test—or ready for a professional radon check?
EnviroPro 360 is your trusted local team for radon testing across Georgia and South Carolina. Let’s make sure your air is safe.

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