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Radon is a radioactive gas that is formed by the natural decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and water. It is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without a radon detector.

Exposure to high levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer and other lung diseases, such as fibrosis. It is crucial to take action to reduce radon levels if your home tests high. In this article, we will discuss what a radon detector is, how it works, and why it is important to use it.

What is a Radon Detector?

A radon detector is a device used to measure the level of radon gas in the air. It is important to monitor radon levels in your home because prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon detectors come in different types, and we will discuss them in the following section.

Finding the Perfect Radon Test Kit for Your Home (No Science Degree Required!)

Let’s face it, radon gas is a scary topic. It creeps in unseen, and long-term exposure can raise your risk of lung cancer. Yikes! But here’s the good news: testing your home for radon is super easy, and we’ve done the hard work for you by checking out a bunch of different test kits.

We wanted to find kits that are accurate, super user-friendly (no need for a science degree!), and a breeze to set up. Our detective work uncovered a whole range of awesome options, from ones that keep tabs on radon levels 24/7 and send the info straight to your phone to simple test kits you mail off to a lab.

Something for Everyone (and Every Budget):

The best part? We found kits for all sorts of folks. Want the ultimate convenience? We’ve got plug-in models that talk to your phone. Looking for something portable (and maybe even smart-home compatible)? We’ve got you covered there too. Even if you just want a basic test to run every now and then, there are user-friendly packets that are perfect for peace of mind and lung cancer prevention.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Wallet:

We know budgets are different for everyone, that’s why we looked at kits across the price range. Radon test kits can start at a cool $15 and go up to a few hundred dollars for the super fancy ones. No matter how much you want to spend, there’s a reliable option out there to give you peace of mind.

The Big Reveal

To pick our top picks, we dug into user reviews, brand reputations, and even got some independent testing done. And below you will find our list with a comparison table to show you the differences.

Airthings Corentium Home Radon Detector

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The Airthings Corentium Home Radon Detector is an advanced measuring device that combines convenience and accuracy. This battery-operated detector allows you to easily monitor the radon levels in your home without the need for an outlet. With long-term monitoring capabilities, the Corentium Home by Airthings radon detector is essential for detecting cancer-causing radon gas, which fluctuates daily.

This detector provides quick results, showing both long and short term readings on its on-screen display, allowing you to take action if your radon levels are high. Additionally, the Corentium Home by Airthings radon detector can generate a radon self-inspection report easily whenever you need it, giving you greater control over the quality of the air in your home.

Radon gas is dangerous and can affect the respiratory system, making it essential to monitor air quality. This detector is an essential tool for property inspections and to check the operation of radon mitigation systems. It also requires no annual calibrations throughout its useful life, estimated at over 10 years.

The Corentium Home by Airthings radon detector is simple to use, accurate, and highly portable. Developed by in-house Norwegian CERN particle physicists, the state-of-the-art sensor is incredibly accurate, providing meaningful results with continuous monitoring for short and long-term averages. The device is also quick and easy to set up, and its battery life lasts up to two years, allowing you to test every room of your home.

Ecosense RD200 RadonEye

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The Ecosense RD200 RadonEye is a highly accurate and reliable radon detector that provides quick and accurate results in just 10 minutes. With its patented ion chamber radon sensor technology, it delivers professional-grade counting efficiency of 30 counts per hour per picocuries per liter. The device also features a smart view radon trend chart that shows the long-term radon trend with hourly basis average data.

The RadonEye is easy to use, and it comes with a free app that can be connected to your smartphone, allowing you to easily monitor and analyze your radon levels in real-time. The device has an OLED screen that displays updated radon results every 10 minutes, and it stores up to 1 year of data for long-term monitoring.

The RadonEye is compact and lightweight, making it easy to move around and use in different areas of your home. It has an audible alarm that goes off if radon levels exceed safe limits, and it is designed for indoor use only.

Overall, the Ecosense RD200 RadonEye is a superb device that provides accurate and reliable results, validated by trusted third parties. It comes with a 12-month limited warranty and customer support via email, making it a great investment for anyone looking to monitor their home’s radon levels.

SafetySiren Pro4 Series

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The SafetySiren Pro4 Series is a 4th generation electronic radon monitor that continuously monitors both short and long-term radon levels in your home or workplace. Engineered, designed, and manufactured in the USA by Family Safety Products, Inc., this device features an easy-to-read digital display with a back-light mode for convenience.

It also features an audible alarm that will alert you if radon levels are high, with three different audible alarm modes to choose from, including a visual alarm for the hearing impaired.

With a fail-safe self-test performed once every 24 hours, the SafetySiren Pro4 Series offers peace of mind to homeowners and building managers who are concerned about the dangers of radon gas.

Measuring 4.5 x 3.5 x 1.5 inches and weighing 11.3 ounces, this modern-looking device is made of ABS material and requires a corded electric power source, with no batteries needed. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality radon monitor, the SafetySiren Pro4 Series is definitely worth considering.

Ecosense EQ100 EcoQube

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The Ecosense EQ100 EcoQube is a smart real-time radon detector that offers fast and accurate monitoring of radon levels. With the first radon level reading delivered in just 10 minutes after powering up, users can take quick action if high levels are detected. The device utilizes a patented detection technology that offers 15 times the sensitivity required for professional testing, making it an accurate monitoring solution for homes, apartments, daycare centers, schools, and commercial buildings.

Results can be viewed anytime, anywhere using the free Ecosense App on iOS or Android, and are securely delivered only to the user’s smartphone. Wi-Fi connectivity is required for using the device. Continuous and long-term monitoring is necessary for radon, as levels fluctuate daily, and the EcoQube offers real-time monitoring with alert notifications via push notifications, audio alarms, and LED lights when radon levels exceed thresholds.

The EcoQube is also compact, with a simple modern design that blends with the style of any home. It was recognized as a CES 2021 Innovation Awards Honoree in the health and wellness category and comes with a 12-month limited warranty.

Types of Radon Detectors

There are two types of radon detectors: short-term and long-term detectors.

• Short-term Detectors

Short-term detectors are used to measure radon levels for a period of 2 to 90 days. They are inexpensive and easy to use, making them a popular choice for homeowners. However, short-term detectors are not as accurate as long-term detectors because radon levels can vary from day to day.

• Long-term Detectors

Long-term detectors are used to measure radon levels for a period of 90 days to one year. They are more expensive than short-term detectors, but they provide a more accurate measurement of radon levels. Long-term detectors are recommended for homes that have never been tested for radon or for homes that have undergone significant renovations.

How Does a Radon Detector Work?

There are different types of radon detectors, but the most common types are alpha track detectors, charcoal canisters, and continuous radon monitors.

• Alpha Track Detectors

Alpha track detectors use a small piece of plastic that is exposed to the air for a certain amount of time. As radon particles decay, they leave tracks on the plastic, which can be counted to determine the level of radon in the air.

• Charcoal Canisters

Charcoal canisters are small containers filled with activated charcoal. As radon particles decay, they attach to the charcoal, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

• Continuous Radon Monitors

Continuous radon monitors are electronic devices that measure radon levels in real-time. They are more expensive than other types of radon detectors, but they provide immediate results and are more accurate.

Importance

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Therefore, it is important to monitor radon levels in your home to reduce your risk of lung cancer.

While there are no telltale signs of radon exposure itself, lung cancer caused by radon can develop symptoms over time. These symptoms can include:

• A persistent cough that just won’t quit
• Hoarseness that makes your voice raspy
• Wheezing, a troubling whistle when you breathe
• Shortness of breath, leaving you gasping for air
• Coughing up blood, a frightening sign that shouldn’t be ignored
• Chest pain, a tightness or discomfort that can worsen with activity
• Frequent bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia, making it hard to breathe clear
• Loss of appetite, a sign that something may be wrong
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue that makes it hard to get through the day

If you’re concerned about radon in your home, testing is the only way to know for sure. It’s a simple and affordable step that can bring peace of mind, or prompt action to reduce radon levels if necessary.

Where Should You Place it?

Radon detectors should be placed in the lowest level of the home that is regularly occupied, such as the basement or first floor. They should be placed at least 20 inches above the floor and away from drafts, windows, and exterior walls. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper placement.

How to Interpret Radon Detector Results

The results of a radon detector are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that homes with radon levels of 4 pCi/L or higher should be fixed. However, even homes with radon levels below 4 pCi/L can still pose a risk, so it is important to consider mitigation measures.

Radon Mitigation

Radon mitigation is the process of reducing radon levels in a home. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as sealing foundation cracks, improving ventilation, or installing a radon mitigation system. It is important to hire a professional to perform radon mitigation to ensure that it is done correctly.

If your radon detector results show levels exceeding the EPA’s recommended limit of 4 pCi/L, radon mitigation is necessary. Here are some resources to help you find qualified professionals in your area:

National Radon Proficiency Program
American Association of Radon Professionals

Maintenance

Radon detectors should be tested regularly to ensure that they are working properly. Some detectors have a built-in alarm that will sound when the radon levels are too high. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and replacement.

Additional Information

• Warning Signs: Look for warning signs that might indicate high radon levels in your home, such as cracks in the foundation, musty odors, or unfinished basements.
• Choosing the Right Detector: Consider short-term detectors for a quick initial test, and long-term detectors for a more comprehensive picture, especially if you’re planning to stay in the home for a while. Features like real-time monitoring and mobile app connectivity can be helpful for some users.

Conclusion

Radon is a silent killer that can increase the risk of lung cancer. The only way to detect radon is with a radon detector. By monitoring radon levels in your home, you can take steps to reduce your risk of lung cancer. Remember to place your radon detector in the lowest level of your home, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance, and consider professional radon mitigation if necessary.

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