Interpreting Results

Less than .5 pCi/L

In this range, the radon levels measured in your home are practically the same as those found in outdoor air. However, if you make any structural changes or start to use a lower level of the building more frequently, you should test again.

From 2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L

Each short-term test is a snapshot of conditions during the 3-7 days of testing (for a short-term test), so in this range, we recommend you test again. You may want to retest during another season of the year.

If the follow-up results are still in this range there is little short-term risk, but the decision of whether to pursue radon mitigation is a personal one, balancing costs and risks. While the United States EPA recommends action at or above the 4.0 pCi/L level, they also state:

"A radon level below 4 pCi/L still poses a risk. Consider fixing when the radon level is between 2 and 4 pCi/L."

(from Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon by US EPA)

The World Health Organization has established an action level of 2.7 pCi/L.

If you change the way you use your home, test again.

From 8.0 to 40+ pCi/L

In this range you should conduct a short-term follow-up measurement within the next few weeks, under closed house conditions. A long-term measurement is NOT recommended because exposure at these levels could pose an increased health risk.

If, however, this is a follow-up (confirming) test, it is recommended that you take remedial action to reduce your radon levels.

A list of Iowa Certified Radon Mitigators can be found at the Iowa Department of Public Health or by clicking here.