Radon Test Instructions

Prepare the House for Testing

In order to provide a reliable result, the radon test must be performed under closed house conditions:

• Close all exterior doors and windows, on all floors of the home, for 12 hours before the test begins. Exterior doors and windows must remain closed during the entire test period.
Turn off all fans that bring in outside air or vent large amounts of air from the house such as a whole-house fan. Do not operate fireplaces, wood or coal stoves unless they are the primary source of heat. Devices that re-circulate air can be used normally. Avoid blowing air directly over the test devices. Any radon mitigation systems should remain on durin the test. Do not perform the test during unusual weather such as sustained high winds or heavy rain or under extreme indoor conditions of heat, cold, or humidity.

Select the test area

• Perform the test in the lowest lived-in level of the home.
• According to the U.S. EPA, the lowest lived-in level of the home is, for example, the basement if it is frequently used, otherwise it is the first floor.
• An area with a workshop or laundry is considered a livable area.
• Do NOT test bathrooms or kitchens or rooms obviously not intended for occupancy such as closets and crawl spaces.
• Place the test vial(s) at least three feet from exterior doors, walls and windows, two feet off the floor and four inches from other objects.
• Choose a test location where the vial(s) won't be disturbed - away from drafts, high heat and/or high humidity.
• The EPA Real Estate Simultaneous Testing Protocol requires that two test devices be placed side by side, four inches apart in the selected testing area.

Perform the test

• Remove the cap(s). Save the cap(s) for later use. Place the vial(s) in the location selected according to the instructions listed above.
• Leave the open test vial(s) undisturbed in the test location for a minimum of 48 hours. Underexposure will invalidate the test results.
• The test vial(s) may remain open for a maximum of 96 hours. Overexposure will invalidate the test results.
• When the exposure is complete, securely seal the test vial(s) by tightly replacing the cap(s).

Complete the paperwork

• Complete the entire Lab Data Form. (PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY.) Incomplete information will delay your test results. Write the vial number(s) in the space(s) provided and keep for your records.
• The laboratory needs to know the address of property tested and the location of the test vial(s) in that property. Please note any unusual conditions in the test location, for example, if the room was cold or humid.
• In the spaces provided, print the beginning and ending dates and times of the test.

Send the test device(s) to the laboratory immediately

• Mail the vial(s) promptly with the completed Lab Data Form in the enclosed envelope. We recommend sending the test via Priority Mail to help ensure quick delivery.
• A delay in the receipt of the test by the laboratory could invalidate the results.
• The laboratory has eight days in which to receive the test device to provide an accurate test result.
• A written report will be sent to the e-mail/mail address indicated on the Lab Data Form.
• A detailed lab report will indicate whether to consider radon remediation.
• NOTE: These instructions cannot anticipate or address every condition that may arise when performing a radon test. Some states have specific regulations regarding radon testing. If you have questions about your state's requirements please contact your State Radon Office. If you have any questions or problems during or after your radon test, please contact us.