Radon Gas Warning Signs

There are no warning signs in your body to detect whether you have inhaled too much radon gas. However, there are methods to test your cellar to discover the level of radon present and provide you with the necessary warning when radon levels are too high. This allows you to take action before exposure to radon affects your health.

Charcoal Canister

• Charcoal canisters are the most common way of providing you with a radon gas warning sign. It resembles a metal container about the size of a tuna fish can and is filled with charcoal. The charcoal is activated and reacts quickly if exposed to radon gas in less than 90 days. However, the results are only about 20 percent accurate.

Ion Detector

• An ion detector is another method of testing the levels of radon. These detectors contain discs made of Teflon that are charged electrostatically. Exposure to radon gas reduces the charge of the discs, and the amount the charge is reduced helps to determine the amount of radon gas present.

Alpha Track Detector

• The alpha track detector consists of a thin piece of plastic. If you leave this detector in the cellar for up to 12 months, alpha products from the radon strike the plastic and mark it. A lab can determine the concentration of the radon by counting the marks.