What is radon gas?

What it is

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas. It forms naturally from the decay (breaking down) of radioactive elements, such as uranium, found in different amounts in soil and rock throughout the world. Radon in the soil and rock can move into the air and into underground water and surface water.

Why it matters

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. It’s measured in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L), and the higher the level, the greater the health risk.

The US EPA and Surgeon General strongly recommend taking action when a home tests at 4.0 pCi/L or higher. Levels below 4.0 still pose some risk and in many cases can be reduced. The average indoor level is about 1.3 pCi/L, and outdoor air is about 0.4 pCi/L. Even homes with very high levels can be brought below 4.0, and many to 2.0 or less.

Learn more at epa.gov/radon.

How T3 tests

T3 Inspections uses a state-of-the-art digital continuous radon monitor. It’s a 48-hour test that takes a reading every hour. Once the test is complete the results are immediate, and in many cases the report is emailed the same day.