8 Myths about Radon

Radon Myth 1- Radon is only found in the basement and I don’t have a basement, use my basement, or it isn’t finished.

False- Elevated Radon levels can be found in every level of the home. Negative pressure in the home causes a stack effect. The home will act like a chimney and pull radon into the home and building as warm air rises.

Radon Myth 2– Radon testing is expensive

False- Short-term tests can be purchased for as little as $15 through the National Radon Program Services. Short-term tests are not as accurate but will give you an idea of the level in your home. Certified IAQ can do Radon tests with a full report starting at $99 (depending on location).

Radon Myth 3– You can use any Radon Mitigation contractor.

False- You want to use a company that is AARST & NRPP Certified in Radon Mitigation. Many states require Mitigators to Licensed or Certified. At Certified IAQ we are AARST & NRPP Certified in Radon Testing and Mitigation.

Radon Myth 4– Opening windows in your home can lower the Radon levels in your home.

False- Opening windows can increase the Radon levels in your home.

Radon Myth 5– I have lived in my home for so long there is not point in testing now.

False- Even if you have lived with elevated Radon for a long period of time you will reduce your risk of lung cancer by mitigating your home.

Radon Myth 6– Radon isn’t found in our area.

False- Radon can be found in every home in the United States. 1 out of 15 home in the US has elevated levels of Radon of 4 pCi/L or higher. The average radon level indoor is 1.3 and the average level outdoor is 0.4 pCi/L. According to the EPA 50% of Colorado homes have high radon levels above 4 pCi/L. The only way to find out if your home has elevated levels is to test.

Radon Myth 7– Radon systems are expensive.

False- Radon mitigation systems are one of the least expensive repairs to a home.

Radon Myth 8– No one really knows if Radon causes lung cancer.

False- Radon gas is a Class A Carcinogen which means it causes cancer in humans. Other Class A carcinogens include Arsenic, Asbestos, Vinyl Chloride, Benzene, Formaldehyde, Tobacco Smoke, and Hexavalent Chromium.