The most accurate way to determine your annual average radon exposure
Long-term radon testing provides the most accurate assessment of your home's annual average radon levels. Using alpha track detectors placed for 90+ days, this method accounts for seasonal variations and daily fluctuations in radon concentrations.
Radon levels fluctuate daily and seasonally. Long-term testing captures these variations, providing a true picture of your annual exposure - the measurement that matters most for health risk assessment.
The EPA recommends long-term testing as the most accurate way to determine if your home needs mitigation. It's the gold standard for occupied homes not involved in real estate transactions.
Since health risks are based on long-term exposure, knowing your annual average helps you make better-informed decisions about the need for mitigation.
| Feature | Short-Term Testing | Long-Term Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 48 hours | 90+ days |
| Best For | Real estate transactions, quick assessments | Occupied homes, health risk assessment |
| Accuracy | Good for immediate levels | Most accurate annual average |
| Cost | $150 | $75 |
| Technology | Continuous radon monitor | Alpha track detector |
| Results | Immediate | 10-14 days after lab receipt |
| Home Conditions | Closed-home required | Normal living conditions |
Our certified technicians place alpha track detectors in your home's lowest livable area, following EPA protocols for optimal placement.
Unlike short-term testing, you can maintain normal living conditions throughout the test period. Open windows as usual, use fans - live normally!
The detector remains in place for at least 90 days, silently collecting data about radon levels in your home through all weather conditions.
After collection, the detector is sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. You'll receive detailed results within 10-14 days of lab receipt.
A: Radon levels can vary significantly from day to day and season to season. Long-term testing captures these variations, providing a true annual average that better represents your actual exposure.
A: No, the detector should remain in its original location throughout the test period. Moving it will invalidate the results.
A: Long-term tests use alpha track detectors - small plastic devices that record damage tracks from alpha particles. Short-term tests use electronic continuous monitors that measure radon hourly.
A: It depends on your situation. For home sales, short-term is usually required. For your family's health assessment, long-term provides the best data. Some homeowners do short-term first, then follow up with long-term if levels are borderline.
Long-term testing provides the best data for making health decisions
Call us at (319) 431-3445 or email Deanna@iaradon.com
NRPP ID: 114561-RMP | Iowa State Certification #RNTST10229