Choosing The Right Radon Test For Your Home
If you live in Northern Wisconsin you’ve probably heard about radon—but maybe you’re not quite sure what to do about it. I get it. There are a lot of things in our environment to worry about impacting our health these days. Here’s the thing: radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and our region is one of the most at-risk areas in the country.
That’s why I want to walk you through the difference between two common ways to test for radon: the DIY kits you can grab at the hardware store, and continuous radon monitors like the Radon Eye we use. We’ve worked with both, and I’ll share what we’ve learned so you can make the best choice for your home.
Why is radon testing important in the Northwoods?
Northern Wisconsin sits on a mix of glacial soils and granite bedrock—perfect conditions for radon to seep into homes. And because it’s a gas, it can build up without you ever knowing. That’s why the EPA classifies our area as Zone 1, meaning we have the highest potential for elevated radon levels. Testing isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must.
Option 1: DIY Radon test kits: an inexpensive starting point
These are the kits you’ll find at your local hardware store. You set them out for a few days, seal them up, and mail them to a lab.
Pros:
Inexpensive (usually under $30)
Easy to use
Good for a quick snapshot
Cons:
Only shows averages, not precise levels across time
Can be affected by weather or where you place it
No real-time feedback
You have to wait for lab results
Option 2: Continuous radon monitors: real-time peace of mind
Devices like the Radon Eye give you hourly readings and long-term trends. I’ve used these in my own home and for clients, and the difference in clarity is huge.
Pros:
Real-time data you can track on your phone
Shows how radon levels change over time
More accurate and reliable
Great for long-term monitoring
Cons:
Higher upfront cost (around $150–$250)
Needs power and setup
So, What’s Right for You?
DIY radon test kits only capture a short-term average, which can miss dangerous fluctuations caused by weather or ventilation. Continuous monitors track radon levels in real time—giving you a more accurate, long-term picture of your home’s air quality. If you’re comfortable with knowing the average level, a DIY kit is a good first step. If you want to really understand what’s happening in your home, a continuous monitor gives you the full picture.
Final Thoughts
I always tell homeowners: don’t guess—test. Whether you’re in a new build, an older home, or somewhere in between, radon doesn’t discriminate. Testing is simple, and the information you get could make a big difference for your family’s health.
Take a deep breath—and make sure it’s a safe one. Schedule your radon test today.
