Why test for radon in Omaha?
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is the leading cause of lung cancer among people who don’t smoke, according to the EPA. The EPA places Douglas and Sarpy counties in its Zone 1, the highest radon potential category, and high readings are common in Omaha basements. Your neighbor’s result doesn’t tell you yours: two houses on the same block can test very differently.
Short-term vs. long-term tests
- Short-term tests run from 2 to 90 days. A professional continuous monitor over 48 hours or more is the usual choice for real estate and for a quick read on your home.
- Long-term tests run more than 90 days and give a better picture of your average exposure across seasons.
Tests should be placed in the lowest lived-in level of the home with windows and outside doors closed (normal coming and going is fine) for at least 12 hours before and during the test.
DIY kits vs. a professional test
Hardware-store kits are a fine way to screen your own home. A professional continuous monitor adds hourly readings, tamper detection and a report that buyers, sellers and lenders generally accept. If a DIY kit comes back at or above 4 pCi/L, the EPA suggests a follow-up test before deciding on mitigation. See radon in Omaha homes.