January is National Radon Action Month, a reminder of a serious health risk that often goes unnoticed. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is invisible, odorless and tasteless, which means the only way to know if it’s present in your home is to test. Radon enters buildings through foundation cracks, gaps around pipes and other openings. Once inside, it can accumulate to unsafe levels, particularly in lower areas like basements and crawlspaces.
Exposure to high radon levels is a leading cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking, and the number one cause among non-smokers. Long-term exposure increases the risk of developing serious respiratory disease, and because symptoms take years to appear, prevention through testing is critical. Minnesota residents face a particularly high risk due to the state’s geology and climate. Cold winter temperatures create pressure differences in homes that draw radon gas upward from the soil, and many areas of Minnesota report levels above the EPA’s recommended action level of 4.0 pCi/L. In fact, more than 40 percent of Minnesota homes test above this level.
Despite the high risk, testing rates remain low. Many homeowners assume their property is safe because neighboring homes tested low or because the house is newer. Radon levels can vary dramatically between homes even on the same street. Testing is the only way to know for sure. It is a simple, inexpensive step that can protect your family’s health.
AmeriSpec is committed to helping homeowners understand and manage radon risk. We are excited to announce that we have brought radon testing in-house and now use sunRADON instant reading monitors. This means we no longer have to send tests to a lab or wait for results. With sunRADON, we can provide accurate, real-time readings, allowing homeowners to make informed decisions without delay. The monitors track radon continuously and deliver reliable results quickly, making testing more convenient and precise.
If elevated levels are detected, mitigation systems can effectively reduce radon concentrations, improving indoor air quality and reducing long-term health risks. Systems are energy-efficient, unobtrusive and professionally designed to protect your home and family.
National Radon Action Month is the perfect time to take action. Testing your home is the first step in ensuring your family’s safety. With AmeriSpec’s in-house testing and sunRADON instant reading technology, Minnesota homeowners can now get results faster and more reliably than ever. Protecting your home and health has never been easier. Give us a call today at 952-854-5110 or contact us!
