How to Read Your Radon Test Results: A Friendly Guide from Ecosense

How to read your radon test results above epa action level for radon

Radon. It's an invisible, odorless gas, and it's a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Here at Ecosense, we're passionate about empowering you to take control of your indoor air quality, and that starts with understanding your radon levels. Whether using our EcoQube, EcoBlu, or RadonEye, this guide will help you decipher those numbers and ensure a healthier home.

Why Continuous Radon Monitoring Matters

Before we dive into interpreting radon test results, let's talk about why continuous monitoring is so important. Radon levels aren't static; they fluctuate constantly! Think of it like the temperature – it changes throughout the day. Radon levels can vary due to weather conditions, changes in ventilation, and even home renovations. A single snapshot test only reflects radon levels during the short testing period, and it may not reveal the full extent of your long-term exposure. That's where our Ecosense radon monitors come in. They provide continuous, real-time data, giving you a much clearer understanding of your home radon levels.

What Do My Radon Test Results Mean?

In the US, Radon gas is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If you're in Canada or Europe, you want to switch your device to display readings in becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³) instead.

Let’s take a look at how to interpret those numbers for U.S. households, keeping in mind guidance from organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Radon Test Result: Less than 2.0 pCi/L

Low Radon – No Action Required (For Now)
If your Ecosense monitor reads below 2.0 pCi/L, that's great news! It means your radon levels are currently low, and no immediate action is required. However, since radon levels can fluctuate over time, it's advisable to continue monitoring.

Radon Test Result: 2.0 pCi/L to 4.0 pCi/L

Moderately Elevated – Consider Fixing Home
A reading between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L indicates moderately elevated radon levels. The WHO recommends considering mitigation at levels of 2.7 pCi/L or higher. Even though the EPA's action level is 4.0 pCi/L, it's wise to think about taking steps to reduce radon in this range, especially if children or pets are present. Continuous monitoring is beneficial here to get a good handle on your average exposure. Long-term monitoring is necessary to determine the average radon level accurately.

Radon Test Result: 4.0 pCi/L or Higher

High Radon – It’s Time To Take Action!
If your test result is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, it's time to fix your home. The EPA has set 4.0 pCi/L as the action level because prolonged exposure at these concentrations significantly increases your risk of lung cancer.

ecoqube radon monitor color coded radon test results

What Should I Do If My Radon Levels Keep Fluctuating?

Fluctuating radon levels are common and can be influenced by weather, ventilation, and even the time of day. That’s why it’s important to continuously monitor your radon levels, not simply relying on a single radon test result.

With Ecosense’s continuous monitoring, you can track patterns over time. If your levels occasionally spike but generally stay low, keep an eye on them and continue monitoring. However, if levels frequently exceed the EPA action level (4.0 pCi/L) or remain high for extended periods, it’s time to consult a radon mitigator to protect your family’s health.

What to Do After You Get Your Radon Test Results

Consider Long-Term Continuous Monitoring: Even if your initial test result is low, radon levels can change over time, even within the same day, influenced by the weather. It’s crucial to monitor your radon levels continuously because Radon levels fluctuate daily and seasonally. Ecosense devices make keeping an eye on things much easier!
If your radon levels are high, don't panic - Take action! There are effective radon mitigation systems that can significantly reduce radon levels in your home. These systems typically involve venting radon from under the foundation to the outside. Please contact your local radon professional for a confirmation test and to discuss appropriate mitigation measures. Use a continuous radon monitor for ongoing peace of mind and to detect any system failure.

Ecosense: Your Partner in Radon Detection

Ecosense offers a range of cutting-edge radon monitors to help you protect your home and family:

EcoQube: Our award-winning smart radon monitor provides real-time data and trend charts accessible via the EcoQube app. It's Wi-Fi connected for remote monitoring.
EcoBlu: A simple plug-and-play monitor with a digital LED display for easy readings.
RadonEye: Our first-generation smart radon gas detector with a built-in display and app connectivity.

All our monitors provide fast, accurate results, so you can stay informed about your radon levels.

radon levels changes seasonally ecoqube app

How Long Should I Monitor Radon to Get Reliable Test Results?

With Ecosense, you can get reliable radon readings in just 1 hour and reach over 90% accuracy within 10 hours, no need to wait days or weeks like with traditional tests.

If you see consistently high radon levels early on, taking action immediately is important. If levels fluctuate, it’s a sign to keep monitoring. Many homeowners benefit from continuous monitoring for at least 90 days or longer to get a true understanding of long-term radon exposure in their home.

Build A Radon-Free Lifestyle

At Ecosense, our goal is to help you build a radon-free lifestyle. Understanding your radon test results is the first step, and continuous monitoring with our reliable devices empowers you to maintain a safe and healthy home. Stay informed, stay proactive, and breathe easy!