As the crisp air of fall begins to settle in and we start closing up our homes for the colder months ahead, now is the perfect time to think about something most homeowners overlook—radon testing.
You might associate radon testing with winter, since that’s when homes are sealed up tightly and indoor air quality becomes a bigger concern. But in reality, fall is an ideal time to test. By getting ahead of the colder weather, you can ensure your home is safe from this invisible, odorless threat before you spend the next several months indoors.
What Is Radon, and Why Should I Care?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, sump pump openings, or even well water. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it—but it can still pose serious health risks.
According to the EPA, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths each year. Even low levels of radon can be harmful with prolonged exposure.
Why Fall Is the Right Time to Test for Radon
While radon levels can fluctuate slightly throughout the year, fall is a smart and strategic time to schedule a test. Here’s why:
🍂 1. Windows and Doors Begin to Close
As temperatures cool, people naturally start keeping their windows shut and relying on indoor HVAC systems. This mimics winter conditions and gives you a more accurate reading of how much radon could accumulate in your home during the cold months.
🔧 2. Time to Fix Issues Before Winter
If high radon levels are detected in fall, you have time to install a mitigation system before winter hits. Mitigation systems are most effective when installed before homes are sealed up and before snow or freezing ground complicates installation.
🛠️ 3. Perfect Season for Home Projects
Fall is already a common time for seasonal maintenance like HVAC checks, gutter cleaning, and roof inspections. Adding radon testing to your checklist fits right in—and it’s quick and affordable.
How Does Radon Testing Work?
There are two main types of radon testing:
🕒 Short-Term Test
This type of test lasts between 2–7 days and provides a snapshot of your home’s radon levels. It’s ideal for real estate transactions or as a first-time screen.
📆 Long-Term Test
Lasting 90+ days, long-term testing offers a better year-round average and is great for determining consistent exposure risk.
A certified home inspector or radon professional can conduct the test and help interpret the results. If your levels are 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) or higher, the EPA recommends mitigation.
What If Your Home Has High Radon?
Don’t panic—radon mitigation systems are highly effective and relatively easy to install. These systems typically involve a vent pipe and fan system that pulls radon gas from below your home and safely vents it outside.
Once installed, radon levels drop quickly, often by more than 90%. It’s one of the most impactful home safety upgrades you can make.
In Summary:
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Radon is a silent but serious health threat.
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Fall is the perfect time to test—before you seal up your home for winter.
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Testing is simple, affordable, and could save lives.
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Mitigation systems are effective and should be installed before winter if needed.
At Norway Hill Home Inspections, we offer professional radon testing services to give you peace of mind. Whether you’re buying a home, selling, or simply want to protect your family, don’t wait until winter to take action.
Test this fall. Breathe easier all winter.