The radon testing Des Moines residents seek plays an important role in maintaining home safety. Radon is a metallic element and is found in group 18 of the periodic table. It is considered a noble gas, similar to other inert gases such as neon, krypton, and argon. However, unlike many other elements in this category, the substance is associated with certain health risks. Although it is beneficial when used as a neutron source and can help to predict earthquakes, it should not be inhaled by humans, as it can have catastrophic effects on one's health.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the second leading cause of lung tumors is exposure to radon, the latter of which is only preceded by cigarette smoke with regard the carcinogens it contains. Those who are exposed to this gas and also use tobacco products increase their risk of this disease even more. Because it is found naturally in the air, all homes should be tested for the presence of this gas regularly.
The EPA also states that testing devices come in two forms: passive or active. The former are not electronically powered. Rather, they merely take air samples from the home, which are then placed in ion chambers or charcoal canisters. Active test kits are powered electrically, and chart the levels of the gas so that individuals can be made aware of any unusual spikes. Active devices are usually more accurate than passive ones.
No testing device is one hundred percent foolproof. For this reason, it is possible to obtain inaccurate radon concentration measurements when using such devices. Test results can also be skewed by opening windows or doors, which can artificially lower the concentration of the gas in the home. In addition, inconsistent readings are sometimes the result of something in the environment in which the device was placed.
Radon testing can take anywhere from 2 days to 3 months. The length of time necessary will depend on the kind of kit the homeowner uses and the size of the area being tested. Overall, long-term tests typically give results that are more accurate than those obtained during short-term tests.
Professionals recommend that those who are in the market for a new home make inquiries concerning when the dwelling was tested last. If the home has never been tested, this action should be taken before the prospective buyer makes an offer. High-traffic rooms, as well as lesser used areas such as attics and unfinished basements, should both be tested.
Any home that shows elevated levels of the gas is a potentially hazardous area in which to live. A professional should be hired to install special venting system to reduce these gas levels if this is the case. Opening windows and sealing foundation cracks are temporary measures one can employ, but long-term solutions must also be sought.
As mentioned earlier, a professional is not required to complete such testing. However, those who avail themselves of an expert to handle the task are typically pleased with the results. This is because the radon testing Des Moines professionals complete is typically affordable and accurate. Such professionals can also recommend appropriate action should radon be found in the home.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the second leading cause of lung tumors is exposure to radon, the latter of which is only preceded by cigarette smoke with regard the carcinogens it contains. Those who are exposed to this gas and also use tobacco products increase their risk of this disease even more. Because it is found naturally in the air, all homes should be tested for the presence of this gas regularly.
The EPA also states that testing devices come in two forms: passive or active. The former are not electronically powered. Rather, they merely take air samples from the home, which are then placed in ion chambers or charcoal canisters. Active test kits are powered electrically, and chart the levels of the gas so that individuals can be made aware of any unusual spikes. Active devices are usually more accurate than passive ones.
No testing device is one hundred percent foolproof. For this reason, it is possible to obtain inaccurate radon concentration measurements when using such devices. Test results can also be skewed by opening windows or doors, which can artificially lower the concentration of the gas in the home. In addition, inconsistent readings are sometimes the result of something in the environment in which the device was placed.
Radon testing can take anywhere from 2 days to 3 months. The length of time necessary will depend on the kind of kit the homeowner uses and the size of the area being tested. Overall, long-term tests typically give results that are more accurate than those obtained during short-term tests.
Professionals recommend that those who are in the market for a new home make inquiries concerning when the dwelling was tested last. If the home has never been tested, this action should be taken before the prospective buyer makes an offer. High-traffic rooms, as well as lesser used areas such as attics and unfinished basements, should both be tested.
Any home that shows elevated levels of the gas is a potentially hazardous area in which to live. A professional should be hired to install special venting system to reduce these gas levels if this is the case. Opening windows and sealing foundation cracks are temporary measures one can employ, but long-term solutions must also be sought.
As mentioned earlier, a professional is not required to complete such testing. However, those who avail themselves of an expert to handle the task are typically pleased with the results. This is because the radon testing Des Moines professionals complete is typically affordable and accurate. Such professionals can also recommend appropriate action should radon be found in the home.
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