The Hidden Health Hazard in Your Home

Understanding and Addressing Radon Exposure

By Quality Environmental Testing Inc.

In the pursuit of a greener, healthier home, many homeowners focus on energy efficiency, sustainable building materials, or water conservation. But there's one silent threat that often goes unnoticed: radon gas. This invisible, radioactive gas can pose serious health risks—especially for the most vulnerable members of your household.

What is Radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. Outdoors, radon disperses quickly and typically poses little risk. But indoors—where ventilation is limited—it can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Radon enters homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings in contact with the ground. Once inside, it can become trapped, particularly in lower levels like basements or crawlspaces.

Why is Radon Dangerous?

Radon is a Group 1 carcinogen, and it’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., following smoking. When inhaled, radioactive particles from radon can damage lung tissue over time, leading to cancer.

While all occupants are at risk, certain populations are more vulnerable:

Children

Children breathe faster and have smaller lungs, making them more susceptible to radiation damage from inhaled radon particles. Additionally, since they spend more time playing on or near the floor, they’re exposed to higher concentrations.

Elderly Adults

Seniors may already have reduced lung function or pre-existing respiratory conditions, making them more susceptible to the harmful effects of radon exposure.

Pets

Your furry family members also spend most of their time close to the ground and indoors. Prolonged exposure to elevated radon levels can harm their respiratory systems, just as it can in humans.

Common Health Effects Linked to Radon

Although radon doesn’t cause immediate symptoms, long-term exposure can result in:

• Persistent cough or wheezing

• Shortness of breath or chest pain

• Fatigue or general weakness

• Increased frequency of respiratory infections

• In severe cases, coughing up blood (a sign of advanced lung damage)

If you or anyone in your household is experiencing unexplained respiratory symptoms—especially alongside known risk factors—it's critical to consider environmental contributors like radon.

Is Radon a Problem in Your Home?

Because radon can’t be detected through sight, smell, or taste, the only way to know your home's radon levels is through professional testing.

At Quality Environmental Testing Inc., our certified professionals use EPA-approved, calibrated radon monitors to give accurate, timely results—typically within 48 hours. We specialize in residential radon testing and provide clear, actionable data you can trust.

What if Your Home Has High Radon?

If testing reveals radon levels at or above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L, don't panic—effective solutions are available. At Quality Environmental Testing Inc., we refer licensed mitigation professionals who can reduce radon in your home using proven techniques such as:

Sub-Slab Depressurization

This involves creating a low-pressure zone beneath your foundation to capture radon before it enters your living space. The gas is then safely vented outside through a pipe and fan system.

Positive Pressure Ventilation

This method introduces clean outdoor air into your home to slightly increase indoor air pressure, preventing radon from seeping in from the ground.

Why Trust Quality Environmental Testing Inc.?

• Certified technicians trained in radon detection and safety

• Calibrated testing equipment meeting all regulatory standards

• Fast, accurate results with detailed reports

• Third-party lab confirmation for unbiased testing outcomes

• Trusted referrals to licensed mitigation specialists

Protect What Matters Most

Radon may be invisible, but its impact on health is undeniable. Children, seniors, and pets deserve a safe home environment—and that starts with awareness and professional testing.

Don’t wait for symptoms. Contact Quality Environmental Testing Inc. today to schedule your certified radon test and take the first step toward protecting your family.