Radon

radon

*While supplies last, residents can obtain a free radon test kit at the Health Department, located in the Town Hall at 740 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06108.  The Health Department is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Any questions about the program can be directed to members of the department at (860) 291-7324.*

What is Radon? Radon is a colorless, tasteless, odorless, and radioactive gas that forms naturally when uranium, thorium, or radium, which are radioactive metals break down in rocks, soil and groundwater. People can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that comes through cracks and gaps in buildings and homes. Because radon comes naturally from the earth, people are always exposed to it.

Radon Health Risks: Radon is the leading cause of cancer among non-smokers. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

Radon Mitigation: Testing is the only way to find out if your home has elevated radon levels. The DPH Radon Program recommends that Connecticut residents throughout the state test the air in their homes for radon. If your house has elevated levels of radon, you should choose a qualified radon mitigation (reduction) contractor to take steps to reduce the levels to below 4 pCi/L, the EPA Action level for Radon. Qualified radon contractors have attended specialized courses and are registered through the CT Department of Consumer Protection. A mitigation contractor takes steps including installing ventilation systems, sealing entry routes for radon gas and installing sub-slab depressurization systems to reduce radon levels. The approximate cost of a radon mitigation system in Connecticut is $1,200. Visit the CT DPH website for a list of qualified radon mitigation professionals.

How to Test Your Home for Radon Video

AirCheck Test Kit Video

Testing kits can be purchased at the American Lung Association website or by calling 1-800-LUNG-USA or 1-860-289-5401 to order a testing kit. Radon test kits are also available for purchase at local hardware and home improvement stores. 

Radon Hotlines (Toll-Free): EPA supports the following hotlines to best serve consumers with radon-related questions and concerns.

  • 1-800-SOSRADON (1-800-767-7236) Purchase radon test kits by phone.
  • 1-800-55RADON (557-2366) Get live help for your radon questions.
  • 1-800-644-6999 Radon Fix-It Hotline for general information on fixing or reducing the radon level in your home.
  • 1-800-426-4791 Safe Drinking Water Hotline for general information on drinking water, radon in water, testing and treatment, and standards for radon drinking water. Operated under a contract with EPA.

Other Resources

A Citizen’s Guide to Radon

Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction