Understanding Radon Test Results
Radon readings can feel confusing at first. This page explains, in plain language, what a result generally represents and what to think about after receiving one.
How radon is measured
Radon levels in homes are typically reported in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). A test result is an estimate of the radon concentration in the air during the test period, in the location where the device was placed.
What a single result does — and does not — tell you
A single reading is a snapshot. Radon levels can vary from day to day and season to season, which is why guidance often recommends follow-up testing when a result is close to or above a level of concern.
Different testing methods (short-term, long-term, continuous monitoring) provide different kinds of information. None of them predict a specific health outcome for any individual — they are tools for understanding indoor conditions.
How to think about your reading
- A lower reading suggests lower radon activity during that test period in that location.
- A higher reading suggests further evaluation may be reasonable, including retesting or considering mitigation.
- Results that sit near a level of concern often benefit from additional testing before making decisions.
Common next steps
Depending on your reading and your situation, reasonable next steps can include a follow-up short-term test, a long-term test that averages seasonal variation, or a conversation about mitigation options. We help you understand which of these fits your situation.
This page is educational information about radon testing, not medical, legal, or engineering advice. Refer to authoritative public-health resources for detailed guidance.
Have a Radon Testing Question?
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