How can I find out if my home has a radon problem?

Anyone can use a "do-it-yourself" test kit to check his or her home. There are short-term and long-term test kits available. 

Short Term

Short-term test kits should remain in the home for two to seven days, depending on the device. Weather conditions and opening and closing of windows will affect radon levels within a home. Using the short-term test will give the homeowner a snapshot of the home's radon level. 

Long Term

The long-term test (3 to 12 months), gives the user a year-round average level of radon. The best way to estimate the year-round average of radon in a home is to test for a full year. Results from long-term radon tests can realistically be used to decide whether or not to mitigate a home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that for homes, initial measurements be short-term tests placed in the lowest lived-in level. Short-term testing in closed building conditions helps residents quickly learn if a home has high levels of radon.

Contact Us

If you are interested in receiving a test kit please contact the Mille Lacs County Community and Veterans Services office at 320-983-8208.

Show All Answers

1. What is radon?
2. What are the health affect associated with radon?
3. Where is your greatest risk of exposure to radon?
4. Is radon a serious problem in Minnesota?
5. How does radon get into our homes?
6. How can I find out if my home has a radon problem?
7. How can I fix my home if it does have elevated levels of radon?
8. How do I choose a radon mitigation contractor and how much will it cost?
9. Where can I get a radon test kit?