Whether you’ve tested your home before or never even considered it, radon exposure is something you shouldn’t ignore. It’s odorless, invisible, and dangerous in the long term—yet completely preventable with regular monitoring.
So, how often should you test for radon?
Let’s break it down based on your living situation, home type, and local risk.
Standard Recommendation: Every 2 Years
The U.S. EPA recommends testing your home for radon every 2 years, even if previous levels were safe. This is because:
- Soil and weather conditions change over time
- Home renovations can alter airflow or foundation integrity
- HVAC upgrades or insulation improvements may trap more gas inside
- Foundation cracks can develop with age
Regular testing = long-term peace of mind.
Test More Often If…
If any of the following apply, consider annual testing:
- You’ve recently finished a basement or made structural changes
- You added a new HVAC system or upgraded insulation
- You bought a home with no record of radon testing
- You live in a high-radon zone (e.g., Utah, Iowa, Colorado, Pennsylvania)
- You’re a smoker or have someone in the home with lung issues
These changes can affect how radon moves and accumulates—especially in colder months.
Seasonal Tip: Test in Winter
Radon levels tend to peak in the winter, when homes are closed up and there’s less air circulation. If you’re only testing once, do it between November and March to get the most accurate high-risk reading.
Types of Radon Tests to Consider
| Test Type | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Test | 2–7 days | Quick checks or real estate deals |
| Long-Term Test | 90+ days | Year-round average, best for accuracy |
| Digital Monitor | Ongoing | Daily visibility and alerts in real time |
If you’ve had a mitigation system installed, a continuous radon monitor helps confirm it’s working effectively over time.
What If Levels Are Still Safe?
Even if your test results come back below the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L, don’t assume that means “forever safe.”
Think of it like a smoke alarm—you wouldn’t skip checking the batteries just because there hasn’t been a fire.
Testing radon is low cost, low effort, and high reward.
Quick Checklist: When Should You Re-Test?
✅ After moving into a new home
✅ After finishing a basement
✅ After HVAC or weatherization upgrades
✅ After installing a mitigation system
✅ After any major seismic activity (earthquakes or settling)
✅ Every 2 years as part of regular home maintenance
Final Thought:
Testing your home for radon isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s part of responsible homeownership.
Protect your health, your family, and your future by making radon testing a routine habit.