The biggest concern you have to go through is when waiting for the radon test results to come and whether the results will be accurate and reliable or not. Every step you are going to take afterward is going to depend on the preciseness of radon test results.
While the accuracy of the results can be enhanced by using the test kit as per the instructions written on it and placing the radon monitor in the right place, the other thing that needs your attention is how much can radon level fluctuate?
Risking your health by living in your own home, no one wants to take a risk when it is concerned with their wellbeing and comfort.
Considering the health hazards possessed by exposure to radon gas and knowing that only the test can identify its presence, no one can compromise with the results. But, on the other hand, we have seen that not only do the test results vary from one point to another in the same building, but also results have shown radon levels fluctuating, which makes us all think about how much they fluctuate and what are the possible reasons behind it.
While figuring out how much radon levels can fluctuate, we have also learned about the normal radon levels. To keep you informed about the same, this article is going to present you with all the related information that you need.
In order to clearly understand the radon levels fluctuations and the factors causing them, let’s first explore the radon levels and what do levels actually mean.
What do your radon levels mean?
The radon level in the air is measured by PicoCuries per liter (pCi/L). As per the directives of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there is no safe level of exposure to radon. But it has also devised 4 levels and what actions you need to take accordingly.
If results show lower than 2 pCi/L radon level, it does not possess any threat. Let the windows open, and it will bring it to a much lower level.
In case the results show between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L radon levels, it depicts the presence of radon, and you need to act before it surpasses the above range.
On the condition that the radon level is more than 4 pCi/L, immediate actions are required. Consider installing a radon mitigation system as soon as you can and do the test again to see if the level is reduced or not.
Why do radon levels fluctuate?
On the same day, you can get different radon levels as the results are affected by a number of factors. Evaluating these elements will help you decide how much can radon levels fluctuate.
Other than the factors, you also need to keep in mind that the radon level is going to be higher in a closed building or where there is no ventilation or mitigation system installed in place.
Let’s now see the elements causing the fluctuation.
Weather
Among all other factors, the weather is the most significant and is going to highly affect the radon results. As radon is a gas, the movement depends on pressure differences. Weather is what makes a substantial change in the state of pressure affecting the level of radon. Similarly, extreme weather conditions, heavy winds, snowfall, and other weather elements can cause radon level fluctuation.
Air exhaust devices
Other than the weather conditions, air exhaust devices are a major cause of fluctuation. It is because these devices, when operating, sucked more radon out of the soil and brought it into the air. This device may also include a water heater, vacuum cleaner, clothes dryer, and fireplace.
How much radon level can fluctuate?
Taking into consideration the above points, there is no specific answer as to how much can radon levels fluctuate. But, you should know that the EPA citizen guide suggests that no level of radon is safe, and therefore, you must go for testing and, based on the level you got, take appropriate actions.
Remember that testing is the only way out to discover the existence of radon in your home. Consider reading out how to test for radon in your home and what is the best way to mitigate radon. All this information is going to make you prepare for whatever situation may arise.
Conclusion
Radon is a cancer-causing noble gas, and you should not dispute the results. Instead, go for multiple tests or long-term testing to get as accurate results as possible. No matter how much fluctuation is there, if it shows there is radon present in the atmosphere, you should consider handling it the right way. Keep yourself and your family safe and provide them the radon-free air to breathe in at all times.