Failure to detect and mitigate radon gas can have dangerous long-term health effects if the gas isn’t removed and controlled. However, with both long-term and short-term tests available, it can be difficult to figure out which one you need and which is the better option. This quick guide should tell you the difference and which one you should choose:
Short-Term Tests
These are usually done through a home testing kit brought from a hardware store. It isn’t as accurate as a long-term radon test, but it will give an indication of the immediate radon levels in a building, usually over 2 to 7 days. It is useful for home use, semi-regular radon monitoring, and for figuring out when to order radon mitigation from a specialist company. As they are less accurate, it is wise to perform several tests before you take further action.
Long-term Tests
Radon levels fluctuate widely, sometimes even in just one day, and can be affected by current weather conditions. A long-term radon test, therefore, gives a more accurate picture of radon levels over a much longer period than a short -term test does. Using one means you generally won’t have to perform a second test to gain more accurate results. It is used when greater accuracy is required so if you want a more careful estimate, you might want to choose this over the short-term test.
Which is Better?
Both types of test have used and the one you choose will depend on your needs and what your budget can stretch to. Short-term tests tend to be ideal for home use but for professional purposes, such as in real estate, a long-term test is generally preferred.
No matter which type of test you choose, you can still be assured that it will help you to monitor and control the radon levels in your home or building. Visit the website for more information.
