Radon testing is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and health of your Abington, PA home.
As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with high radon levels and take proactive measures to mitigate them.
Radon is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors.
Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can significantly increase your risk of developing lung cancer.
Understanding Radon Levels in Abington Homes
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down.
It can enter your home through various pathways, such as:
Entry Point | Description | Risk Level |
---|---|---|
Cracks in foundation | Gaps in the home’s foundation | High |
Poorly sealed drains | Improper sealing around plumbing | Moderate |
Crawl spaces | Exposed soil in crawl spaces | High |
Homes in Abington and the surrounding areas have the potential for elevated radon levels due to the geological composition of the region.
The Long-Term Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health problems, including:
Health Risk | Description | Severity |
---|---|---|
Lung cancer | Second leading cause after smoking | High |
Respiratory issues | Irritation of lung lining | Moderate |
Increased risk for smokers | Higher risk of lung cancer | Very High |
Why Regular Radon Testing is Essential for Abington Residents
Radon levels can fluctuate over time due to changes in your home’s structure, ventilation, or the surrounding soil.
Regular testing is the only way to ensure that your home’s radon levels remain within safe limits.
Testing Frequency | Home Type | Recommended Action |
---|---|---|
Every 2 years | All homes | Routine testing |
Every year | Homes with previous high radon levels | Monitor closely |
Every 6 months | Homes undergoing radon mitigation | Ensure mitigation system effectiveness |
Special Considerations for Older Homes and Homes with Basements
Older homes and those with basements may be more susceptible to radon infiltration due to aging foundations and increased soil contact.
If you own an older home or one with a basement in Abington, it’s crucial to prioritize regular radon testing and consider investing in a radon mitigation system if necessary.

How Much Does Radon Testing Cost in Abington
The cost of radon testing in Abington varies depending on the testing method and the service provider you choose.
- Short-term testing: This method uses charcoal canisters or electronic monitors to measure radon levels over a period of 2-7 days. The average cost for short-term testing in Pennsylvania ranges from $50 to $150.
- Long-term testing: Long-term tests measure radon levels for a minimum of 90 days, providing a more accurate assessment of your home’s average radon concentration. These tests typically cost between $100 and $250.
- DIY test kits: Hardware stores and online retailers offer affordable DIY radon test kits, which usually cost between $10 and $50. However, these kits may not be as reliable as professional testing and require you to carefully follow the instructions and mail the kit to a lab for analysis.
Budgeting for Regular Radon Testing
As a homeowner in Abington, it’s essential to budget for regular radon testing to ensure your family’s health and safety.
Consider setting aside funds for testing every two years, or more frequently if your home has a history of high radon levels or is undergoing radon mitigation.
Pennsylvania State Guidelines for Radon Testing
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) provides guidelines and resources for radon testing and mitigation in the state.
- The EPA recommends taking action to mitigate radon levels if the concentration is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.
- Pennsylvania law requires all radon testing and mitigation professionals to be certified by the DEP.
- When selling a home in Pennsylvania, the seller must disclose any known radon testing results and information about radon mitigation systems installed in the property.
Best Practices for Radon Testing in Abington Homes
To ensure accurate and reliable results, follow these radon testing best practices recommended by the Pennsylvania DEP:
- Hire a DEP-certified radon testing professional or purchase a DEP-approved DIY test kit.
- Conduct the test in the lowest livable level of your home, such as a basement or first floor.
- Keep windows and exterior doors closed during the test, except for normal entry and exit.
- Avoid testing during severe storms or periods of high winds, as these conditions can affect the results.
How to Choose the Right Radon Testing Service in Abington
When selecting a radon testing service in Abington, consider the following factors:
Factor | Description | Importance |
---|---|---|
Certification | Ensure the professional is DEP-certified | High |
Experience | Choose a company with a proven track record | High |
Services offered | Consider if they provide both testing and mitigation | Moderate |
Questions to Ask a Potential Radon Testing Service Provider
When interviewing radon testing companies, ask the following questions to gauge their expertise and reliability:
- Are you certified by the Pennsylvania DEP?
- How long have you been providing radon testing services in Abington?
- What type of testing do you recommend for my home, and why?
- Can you provide references from previous clients in the area?
- Do you offer radon mitigation services if high levels are detected?
Company | DEP Certified | Testing Method |
---|---|---|
Sterling Home Inspections | Yes | Short-term and long-term |
Abington Radon Solutions | Yes | Short-term only |
Keystone Radon Services | Yes | Long-term only |
Why We Think This Is Important
At Sterling Home Inspections, we believe that radon testing is a critical aspect of home safety and health in Abington.
As a local home inspection company, we are committed to educating homeowners about the risks of radon exposure and providing reliable, DEP-certified testing services.
By prioritizing regular radon testing and mitigation when necessary, you can protect your family from the long-term health risks associated with this silent killer.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule your radon test today and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your Abington home is safe and healthy.

FAQs
What are the risks of high radon levels in Abington homes?
High radon levels in Abington homes can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer, especially for smokers and those exposed over long periods.
How often should radon testing be done in Abington?
Radon testing should be done every 2 years in Abington homes, with more frequent testing recommended for homes with previous high radon levels or those undergoing mitigation.
What is the average cost of radon testing in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of professional radon testing in Pennsylvania ranges from $50 to $250, depending on the testing method and duration.
How does radon testing work?
Radon testing involves placing a device in the lowest livable level of your home for a specified period to measure radon concentration in the air.
Are there state regulations in Pennsylvania requiring radon testing?
While Pennsylvania does not require radon testing, the state does mandate that all radon testing and mitigation professionals be DEP-certified.