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January is “Radon Action Month” in the United States, making it the perfect time to begin your journey into radon monitoring and awareness. If it’s something you haven’t explored before, smart radon detectors can, quite literally, be a lifesaver.
What is Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas found naturally in soil and rock. It forms when uranium in the ground breaks down. "It's a 'silent killer'," says Airthings CEO Oyvind Birkenes. "You simply can’t feel or detect its presence on your own, despite it being common in areas all around the world."
Radon is dangerous because it increases the risk of lung cancer. Birkenes explains: "Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers, claiming the lives of roughly 21,000 Americans each year—six times more than home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning combined." Monitoring your home for radon is a simple way to reduce this risk.
Why continuous radon monitoring matters
Many think a one-time test is enough; it’s not. Continuous monitoring tracks radon levels over time. Birkenes says, "[Continuous readings] confirm if you have a serious issue, or perhaps, luckily, a more transient one."
Radon levels can change because of:
- Shifting weather conditions
- Temperature changes
- Atmospheric pressure
- Rain or snow
- Construction or renovation
Seasonal changes matter too. "Radon levels almost always increase in winter," Birkenes cautions. "Closing windows to block the chill can trap radon inside, especially in areas prone to higher levels due to geology."
Long-term monitoring helps you:
- Know your home’s average radon level
- See if spikes are temporary or ongoing
Compare your area to regional averages via tools like RadonMap.com
Could radon be in my home?
You won’t know without testing. Many assume older homes have higher radon, but new homes can be at risk too. Birkenes notes, "Excavation during construction often drills into rock formations, which is one of the most commonly associated causes for radon spikes."
Radon can enter through:
- Cracked foundations
- Gaps in the ground
- Poor ventilation in tightly insulated homes
Even energy-efficient homes can trap radon inside, making testing important regardless of age.
Simple ways to reduce radon exposure
Once you know radon is present, there are ways to lower it:
- Improve ventilation in basements and lower levels
- Seal cracks and gaps in foundations
- Install radon mitigation systems
- Use air purifiers designed for radioactive gas
How radon affects health over time
Radon exposure builds up slowly. The longer you breathe it, the higher your risk. Non-smokers are particularly vulnerable, but smokers are at even greater risk. Continuous exposure in poorly ventilated spaces is the main danger.
Tools that help track radon
Modern devices can give real-time readings, making it easier to act quickly. Features to look for:
- Continuous measurement
- Alerts when levels rise
- Data you can check online
- Support for regional comparisons
Great Products for Radon Monitoring
Airthings is the global leader in smart radon monitoring for homeowners, professionals, and anyone in between. Here are a few of their most popular radon detectors:
View Radon
MSRP: $199
- This WiFi-connected smart monitor offers always-on visibility into radon levels in your home.
- Modern design
- Accurate readings
- It's a great fit for always-on radon detection in basements and ground floors where radon levels are usually the highest.
View Plus Continuous Radon Monitor
MSRP: $299
- Connect more devices. View Plus is a comprehensive indoor air quality monitor, perfect for anyone looking to combine radon monitoring and smart features with a more holistic understanding of their overall indoor air quality.
- WiFi-connected
- It integrates an eInk screen reader and monitors 7 aspects of air quality, including radon, particulate matter (PM 2.5), VOCs, humidity, CO2, temperature and air pressure.
Corentium Home Digital Radon Detector
MSRP: ~$179
- Handheld unit—but not wi-fi enabled.
- Quickly generate a radon self-inspection report to document or share your readings.
- Runs cable-free on batteries for up to 2 years.
- Better than traditional radon test kits, the Corentium home radon detector has no lab fees. And unlike traditional radon gas test kits, you can check your readings whenever you need to.
What to Do if Radon Levels Are High
Radon can be dangerous, but most problems are fixable. The first step is monitoring your home over time to see if levels stay high.
If radon stays high for more than a month, contact a radon professional. The EPA has tips for choosing a mitigator, and the WHO lists recommended action levels.
For homes with moderately high radon, simple fixes can help:
- Add ventilation to basements or lower floors
- Seal cracks or gaps in foundations
- Keep monitoring levels regularly
Good ventilation and proper mitigation prevent radon from building up and reduce long-term health risks. Monitoring now is the easiest way to start protecting your home.
FAQs
How often should I test for radon?
Testing once a year or after major home renovations is recommended. Continuous monitors give the most accurate picture of long-term exposure.
Can radon levels change during the year?
Yes. Temperature, weather, and building use all affect radon levels. Winter often sees higher levels because homes are sealed against the cold.
Are new homes safer from radon?
Not always. New homes can have radon if construction digs into rock or soil with uranium. Tight insulation can trap radon inside, making testing important no matter the age of the home.
