Radon Detectors
Undetectable gas a leading cause of lung cancer
Radon detectors are not technically air purifiers, but they can be an important part of any arsenal for determining indoor air quality. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that, according to the U.S. Surgeon General, is a leading cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking.
Unlike smoke, though, radon is a naturally occurring toxin – a radioactive byproduct of the breakdown of uranium in the soil. If you live in an area with a high concentration of uranium under the surface, radon may be a danger. Industrial waste can also be high in radon, and natural gas is another prominent source for high emissions of radon.
Regular testing for radon can help ensure you remain safe from this gas. We have seen increased attention on radon emissions in recent times. Several European countries have adopted strict guidelines concerning the construction of buildings in high radon areas. There is some resistance to this in the United States, and, in any case, many homes and buildings were built long before there was any awareness of this potentially lethal toxin.
Home radon testing kits can make you aware of the levels of radon in your home. While there are not many homes that are in danger from radon exposure (government estimates indicate that less than one-tenth of 1 percent of all homes have emissions exceeding recommended health levels), the danger is great for those that are, as indicated by high lung cancer rates.
Testing the level of radon in your air, either on your own or through a professional, will make you fully aware how much, if any, danger your family faces. A commercial radon detection service will provide you with the most thorough inspection of your home. If you feel that radon is an issue in your area, we recommend you consider professional testing.
A home radon detection kit will cost you less money and may be a viable first step toward understanding whether or not you actually have a problem. These kits can cost as little as $20 per unit; you might also have to pay to have the results sent to a lab, although most units will have this included in the price.
| Write A Comment |
