How To Test Your Home For Radon

Step 1: Lock Down

Close all of your exterior doors and windows 12 hours prior to test.

Step 2: Your Opening Act

Open up your kit - you will probably need the scissors to get it open.

Step 3: In The Zone

Find a place in your home where you spend a lot of time. Choose your basement if you have one. Do not use a kitchen or bathroom.

Step 4: Product Placement

Put test vials 20 inches above floor and about 6 inches apart.

Step 5: Hurry Up And Wait

Wait a minimum of 48 hours but no more than 96 hours for your vials to take a sample of your air. Do not disturb vials. Do not use your fireplace.

Step 6: Put A Lid On It

Put the caps on the vials, fill out the data card and put everything - including a lab fee if necessary - into the envelope provided by manufacturer of your kit.

Step 7: Post It

Mail your test vials within a day, if possible, for the most accurate results.

Step 8: Read Your Results

The lab will either mail you your results make them accessible online. It's important to know radon is measured in Pico curies per liter of air.

Step 9: Get Radon Active

If your home has a level of 4 Pico curies per liter or higher, consult the Environmental Protection Agency's website (www.epa.gov/radon) for information on either having a professional test or repair your home.