One of the several silent killers that can be lurking within a home is radon gas, and it is advisable that every residence be tested periodically with proper radon detection equipment, to ensure that it is safe. Older homes are especially vulnerable to the problem, because radon enters the house through basement walls and floors that are no longer properly sealed. When concentrations of the radioactive gas reach dangerous levels, anyone who is exposed to it has a higher chance of developing lung cancer.
Fortunately, there are a variety of radon detection systems available to the homeowner today. In order to determine whether or not there is a radon in the home, there are several short-term tests on the market, which are relatively inexpensive. These tests will alert a person to the presence of the gas, and give an initial estimate of how much is present in the home.
Because the amount of radon gas will vary over a span of time, the next step in the radon detection process would be to purchase one of the long-term tests. These devices will remain in a home over a period of thirty to ninety days, and when the time has lapsed, a more accurate estimate of the radon level will be achieved. If the concentration within the building is abnormally high, it will then be time to hire a professional to remedy the problem.
When the professional arrives at the home, he or she will likely perform additional radon detection tests, in order to determine the best solution for the problem. Then one of many radon mitigation systems will be installed that will reduce the concentration of the gas to an acceptable level, or eliminate it completely.
Once the job is done, it is a good idea to run a follow-up radon detection test to ensure that the desired results were obtained. This will ensure that the air is safe to breathe for the family that is living in the home.
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