The Home Almanac

Vol. I, MMXXVIThe American home, in season.Across all fifty states

Radon Test Calculator

Schedule a radon test window, keep it inside the heating season when possible, and compare a lab result with the EPA action level.

A long-term radon test started October 1 runs through 2026-12-31; a 5 pCi/L result is above the EPA action level and should follow the EPA action guidance.

How to use it

  1. Choose a test type. Use a long-term test for the main schedule, or a short-term test for quick screening.
  2. Pick the start date. Choose when the detector will be placed in the lowest lived-in level of the home.
  3. Add the lab result if you have it. Enter the pCi/L result only after the lab report comes back.
  4. Read the schedule and guideline note. Use the test window, retest reminder, and the EPA action wording as planning guidance.

How this works

The calculator uses 91 days for a long-term test, 7 days for a short-term screen, and October through April as the heating-season target window. It then sets a 2-year retest reminder and compares any entered result with the EPA action level.

Sources

Radon test length, closed-house testing advice, the 4.0 pCi/L action level, and the 2 to 4 pCi/L consider-fixing range follow the EPA's Citizen's Guide to Radon and the EPA radon program. Use the lab report and a state-certified radon professional for mitigation decisions.

Radon test questions

When should I start a radon test?

Place a long-term test during the heating season, in the lowest lived-in level of the home, under closed-house conditions. The EPA treats tests longer than 90 days as long-term.

What radon level triggers action in the US?

The EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L. The EPA recommends fixing your home at or above 4 pCi/L, and suggests considering a fix between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

Can a short-term radon test decide whether to remediate?

A short-term test (2 to 90 days) screens quickly, but the EPA recommends confirming with a long-term test, or a second test, before deciding to mitigate.

How often should I retest for radon?

Retest after major renovations, energy retrofits, foundation work, radon mitigation, or about every 2 years for ongoing checks.

Does this calculator diagnose health risk?

No. It schedules testing and compares a lab result with the EPA action level. It does not diagnose exposure, illness, or individual risk.