What is Radon?
Radon, a colorless and odorless gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer worldwide. It is a part of the radioactive decay chain of uranium. This gas seeps into homes and businesses through the ground and accumulates in enclosed spaces, posing a significant health risk to occupants. It is impossible to know if a home or business has elevated levels of radon unless it is tested. As awareness about the dangers of radon grows, so does the need for effective detection methods by radon professionals.
Radon Equipment
In this blog, we will explore the latest equipment in radon detection, shedding light on newer technologies and techniques that offer improved accuracy. These are the tools that a professional radon specialist can use to help inform the client of this potential hazard.
- Electret Ion Chambers: This passive testing enables measurements in short timeframes, making it suitable for real estate transactions or time-sensitive situations. They do not require batteries or an electrical power source. Electret ion chambers are highly sensitive and capable of providing accurate measurements in shorter test durations. Radon professionals will use these devices as a reliable method to test in multiple areas of a property without major additional costs to the client. This is typically the preferred method for testing commercial properties that include daycare centers, apartments, and office buildings in addition to residential properties.
- Continuous Radon Monitoring: Continuous radon monitors (CRMs) have revolutionized the detection process. These electronic devices provide real-time readings that enable radon professionals to monitor radon levels on an hour by hour basis. Continuous radon monitoring can provide some reliable data for assessing radon levels and help the radon professional see fluctuations. However, the quality of these measurements depends on the quality of the microchips used. Cheaper chips used in less expensive equipment will not provide as accurate a reading. In addition to professionals using higher quality equipment, they will also properly maintain the device with regular calibration and have the know-how to properly analyze the data.
- Smart Home Integration: With the rise of smart home technology, radon detection has also found its place in this connected ecosystem. Several innovative radon detectors can now integrate with home automation systems or be controlled through mobile applications. However, the problems still remain regarding the use of cheap microchips compounded by the lack of regular calibration to ensure accuracy.
As awareness about the dangers of radon gas continues to grow, so does the need for accurate detection methods. There are many products on the market that can provide some semblance of accuracy, but as the old adage goes “The buyer beware”. Homeowners attempting to perform testing on their own risk getting highly inaccurate readings. A trained radon professional will have the right equipment and expertise to provide a client the peace of mind regarding their air quality. We highly recommend viewing www.indoorscience.com to see how we can provide our accurate equipment and expertise to provide peace of mind with your indoor air quality.