People who live in houses that have high radon levels are exposed to a severe health risk. That’s why radon gas testing service is an essential step in any home maintenance and should be included with a standard home inspection.
Testing for radon can be a quick and straightforward process that can be done in any home and performed by any qualified tester. Local radon testing and inspection only take as fast as a few minutes. Still, the protection it provides your family from the dangers of radon gas is priceless.
For every 15 homes in the United States, around one of them is estimated to have high radon levels that are at or above the EPA action level. That’s why you definitely need to have a radon gas testing service as soon as possible.
What Is Radon?
Radon gas – an odorless, colorless, and tasteless radioactive gas – is a naturally occurring compound produced when the uranium in the soil, rock, and groundwater breaks down. As the gas rises through the soil and other materials, it comes in contact with air, which turns it into a solid particle.
When radon decays, it turns into a variety of other radioactive materials. It can be absorbed into the air in homes and buildings. And when this deadly gas is released into the air and enters your home, it can pose a serious health risk not just to you but to your family as well.
The problem with breathing in radon is that the alpha particles can eventually become lodged in the lungs and can cause health complications and severe damage over time.
What Are the Risks of Exposure to Radon?
Did you know that the deadly radon gas is the culprit that causes around 20,000 lung cancer cases every year? Thus, it is the second leading cause of the disease.
The risks of radon exposure are very real, can cause several health problems to the point of being fatal, and are significantly higher than most people think. Radon gas exposure has been linked to many different types of diseases, including:
- Cancer of the lungs
- Cancer of the lymph nodes
- Cancer of the nose and throat
- Breast cancer
- Cancer of the skin
Experts have done several studies done on the effects of radon exposure on human health, and the results are conclusive. In fact, the number of deaths brought about by radon is staggering. They have found that there is a significant link between radon and cancer.
The risks caused by constant and continuous exposure to radon can even increase dramatically when the person has smoking habits. Another factor contributing to elevated risk is the burning of coal, wood, or other gas-emitting substances in the house.
So if you have a smoking habit or like spending quiet evenings in front of the fireplace, you have all the more reason to consider getting radon gas testing service for your home.
How To Test for Radon
Several different methods can be used to test for radon levels in the home. The first is a simple do-it-yourself test kit, which can be purchased at a local hardware store. These short-term radon tests that provide you with an idea of the amount of radon in your home are very easy to do and are often used in real estate transactions.
Another option is to have the experts come and test your home for radon gas. Professional testers will go to your home and measure the radon levels directly in your house. After that, they’ll provide you with a report of the results and can also send it to the EPA.
The third approach is to have a full radon gas testing service, followed by a complete radon mitigation system installation. By opting to have this done, you are reducing the health risks that radon poses to your family.
Stay Safe From Radon Gas
If you are worried about the radon levels in your home, you should consider having it tested as soon as possible to determine the level of risk to you and your family. Consider Idaho radon mitigation and professional services in other cities that can help you test your home for this fatal gas. Mitigating radon from the air in your house can give you peace of mind, knowing that your family is protected from this health risk.