I was shocked to learn that this is more common in #Idaho and even more shocked to learn that most people do not know about this! 😱 So I’m on a mission to educate buyers and homeowners about this mysterious gas called Radon!
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas and home carcinogen that naturally occurs from the decay of uranium in the soil. It can enter homes through the ground and become trapped, especially in areas with poor ventilation. Radon is a known carcinogen, and long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon gas can increase the risk of lung cancer, particularly in those who smoke.
Here’s how you can learn if your home is affected by radon:
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1. Radon Testing: Radon testing is the only way to determine if your home has elevated radon levels. You can purchase radon test kits from hardware stores or hire a professional radon tester. Short-term tests typically run for a few days, while long-term tests can last several months. I started with a short term test and decided I wanted to be extra cautious and do a long term test as well. Luckily ours came back very low.
2. Acceptable Levels: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that action be taken if radon levels exceed 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If your home tests above this level, it’s essential to address the issue.
3. Mitigation: If high radon levels are detected, you can hire a qualified radon mitigation contractor to install a radon mitigation system. These systems typically involve the installation of a vent pipe and a fan to redirect radon gas outside, preventing it from accumulating indoors.
Radon levels can vary significantly from one home to another, even in the same neighborhood. Therefore, testing your home is the only way to know for sure if radon is a concern. Reducing radon exposure is crucial for your health and that of your family, so don’t skip this important step, especially if you live in an area with a higher potential for radon.
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