How reliable are Do-it-Yourself radon test kits?

A September, 2008 Consumer Reports article points out a critical issue for radon risk reduction in the U.S., namely, the reliability of do-it-yourself (DIY) testing devices.

These do-it-yourself devices continue to provide generally practical and affordable measurements.  They can give consumers the information they need about the radon level in their home, and in making a decision about whether to fix their home.

EPA recommends that you hire a qualified professional to test for radon when you are buying or selling a home.

Organizations that address radon risk (state programs, the radon testing and mitigation industry and EPA) are working to improve the reliability of devices.  Several states have conducted studies to test the reliability of devices, and a national effort to establish consensus standards for devices is underway.

EPA strongly recommends that consumers contact their state radon offices for more information on radon testing and other questions.  Contact information and other useful radon facts can be found at www.epa.gov/radon

As a precaution, EPA advises a second test if levels come back above 4 pCi/L.  We then advise professional mitigation, using a practitioner with more sophisticated, precise, and expensive equipment.