General
Professional Radon Testing: When to Hire a Pro
The Dangers of Radon Gas
Radon gas is a radioactive gas that is emitted from the ground. It is odorless and colorless, making it difficult to detect without the appropriate tools. Radon is a carcinogen, and long-term exposure to high levels of this gas can lead to lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon is responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths from lung cancer each year in the United States.
DIY Radon Testing Kits
Testing for radon is essential for your family’s safety. The good news is that DIY radon testing kits are widely available and affordable. These kits allow homeowners to test for the presence of radon gas in their homes using small sampling devices. While DIY kits can give homeowners a general idea of the radon levels in their homes, they may not be as accurate as professional testing.
If you use a DIY radon testing kit and discover levels above the recommended guidelines, it is time to bring in the professionals. A certified radon professional can help you to determine the source of the gas and develop an effective plan to reduce the levels.
When to Hire a Radon Professional
While DIY test kits can be helpful, there are situations in which it is best to hire a certified radon professional. If you are planning to sell your home, some states require professional testing and disclosure of the results during the sales process. Additionally, if you are purchasing a new home, radon testing should be a part of the home inspection process.
If you have tested your home with a DIY kit and the levels are high, or if you have any reason to suspect that radon is present in your home, it is best to hire a professional. The EPA recommends testing every two years, and more often if you have made any structural changes to your home, such as adding a basement or finishing an existing one.
Choosing a Radon Professional
When it is time to hire a radon professional, it is important to choose a reputable and certified individual or company. The EPA recommends that homeowners choose individuals or companies that are certified through one of the National Radon Proficiency Programs.
Certification demonstrates that the individual or company has completed training and has the necessary experience to provide accurate testing and effective solutions. Additionally, it is essential to ask for references and to verify that the contractor carries liability insurance.
The Benefits of Professional Radon Testing
Professional radon testing can give you peace of mind that your home is safe from this deadly gas. A certified professional can provide more accurate results than a DIY kit and can suggest more effective solutions if high levels of radon are detected. Uncover new perspectives on the subject with this specially selected external resource to add value to your reading. click now!
In conclusion, radon gas is a serious health hazard that should not be taken lightly. Regular testing is crucial to ensure that your family is safe. While DIY testing kits may be adequate in some situations, professional testing is necessary in others. Hiring a certified radon professional can provide peace of mind and the necessary information to keep your home safe from this deadly gas.
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