When I first moved to the Lehigh Valley, I thought radon was just another housing checkbox to ignore. But after learning that Allentown sits directly on the Reading Prong geological formation—basically a uranium factory beneath our feet—I realized this invisible threat is far more serious than most homeowners imagine. If you’re living in Allentown, PA, and you haven’t tested for radon yet, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: approximately 40% of Pennsylvania homes have radon levels above the EPA’s action guideline, and Allentown is designated as an EPA Zone 1 area, meaning we face the highest potential for elevated indoor radon levels averaging 4.0 pCi/L or higher.
Watch this video to understand radon health risks:
What Is Radon And Why Is It So Dangerous? – Mayo Clinic
What Is Radon Gas and Why Should Allentown Residents Care?
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that seeps up from the ground through cracks in your foundation, gaps around pipes, and even through your basement walls. It’s the natural decay product of uranium found in soil and rock—particularly abundant in the Reading Prong geological formation that runs right through Lehigh County.
Here’s what makes this personal for every Allentown homeowner: radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths annually in the United States. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it. The only way to know if you have a radon problem is to test.
The Reading Prong: Allentown’s Geological Radon Factory
The Lehigh Valley’s location on the Reading Prong isn’t just interesting geology—it’s a significant health concern. This physiographic section contains Precambrian granitic gneisses with elevated uranium concentrations, which continuously break down and release radon gas. In fact, Lehigh County has been home to some of the highest radon levels ever recorded in Pennsylvania, with readings breaking state records multiple times.
Back in 2014, a home in Upper Saucon Township (just outside Allentown) recorded radon levels that shattered Pennsylvania’s previous records. These aren’t isolated incidents—they’re wake-up calls for every homeowner in the region.
Understanding EPA Zone 1 Designation: What It Means for Your Allentown Home
Allentown’s designation as an EPA radon Zone 1 area places it in the highest-risk category in the United States. Let me break down what this actually means:
- Zone 1 (Red): Predicted average indoor radon screening levels greater than 4 pCi/L (that’s us)
- Zone 2 (Orange): Predicted levels between 2-4 pCi/L
- Zone 3 (Yellow): Predicted levels below 2 pCi/L
The EPA’s action level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L)—but here’s something most people don’t realize: the EPA actually recommends considering mitigation even if levels are between 2-4 pCi/L, because there’s no truly “safe” level of radon exposure.
According to recent Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) data, 39.1% of radon test results statewide were at or above the EPA action level. In Lehigh County specifically? That percentage trends even higher due to our Reading Prong geology.
Types of Radon Testing: Short-Term vs Long-Term Methods
Choosing the right radon test for your Allentown home depends on your timeline, accuracy needs, and specific situation. Let’s walk through your options.
Helpful tutorial video:
How to Test for Radon at Home DIY
Short-Term Radon Testing (2-7 Days)
Charcoal Canister Tests
These are the most common DIY radon test kits you’ll find at hardware stores. They’re affordable (typically $20-$30) and provide quick results. The charcoal adsorbs radon from the air over 2-7 days, then you mail it to a Pennsylvania-certified lab for analysis.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and widely available
- Fast results (usually within 2 weeks of mailing)
- Great for initial screening
Cons:
- Weather and humidity can affect accuracy
- Represents only a short snapshot in time
- Not ideal for final pre-purchase decisions
Continuous Radon Monitors (CRM)
Professional inspectors and some homeowners use electronic continuous radon monitors like the RadonEye Pro or professional-grade Radalink monitors. These devices provide hourly readings and can detect radon levels in real-time.
Pros:
- Immediate, ongoing data
- Can identify radon fluctuations
- Professional-grade accuracy
- Tamper-evident for real estate transactions
Cons:
- More expensive initial investment ($150-$300 for professional testing)
- Requires calibration and proper placement
Professional testing video:
Understanding Radon Testing | Ask This Old House
Long-Term Radon Testing (90+ Days)
Alpha Track Detectors
These passive devices use a special film that records alpha particle strikes from radon decay over 3-12 months. They’re considered the gold standard for determining your home’s true annual average radon level.
Pros:
- Most accurate representation of year-round exposure
- Not affected by short-term fluctuations
- High accuracy (typically within ±5%)
- Affordable ($25-$40)
Cons:
- Long wait time for results
- Not suitable for time-sensitive situations like home sales
- Requires patience
DIY Radon Test Kits vs Professional Radon Testing in Allentown
I get this question constantly: “Should I just buy a test kit from Home Depot, or should I hire a certified radon tester?” Here’s my honest take.
When DIY Radon Testing Makes Sense
Buy a radon test kit if:
- You’re doing initial screening in your current home
- You want to monitor radon levels periodically
- Budget is a primary concern
- You’re comfortable following detailed instructions
You can purchase radon test kits at most Allentown-area hardware stores (Lowe’s, Home Depot, Ace Hardware) for $15-$30, or order them online from the National Radon Program Services at Kansas State University (1-800-SOS-RADON).
Official PA DEP testing guide:
How to test your home for radon – Pennsylvania DEP
Important DIY testing protocol:
- Place the test in the lowest livable area (usually the basement)
- Keep windows and doors closed 12 hours before and during the test
- Avoid placing near exterior walls, windows, or doors
- Follow the 48-hour radon test protocol precisely
- Don’t use fans or air conditioning that bring in outside air
When to Hire a PA DEP Certified Radon Tester
Professional radon testing is essential for:
- Real estate transactions (both pre-sale and pre-purchase)
- When you need legally defensible results
- Post-mitigation verification testing
- If initial DIY tests show elevated levels
- When you want expert interpretation of results
Professional radon testing in the Lehigh Valley typically costs $150-$250 for a standard home inspection using continuous radon monitors. Yes, it’s more expensive than a DIY kit—but you’re paying for expertise, calibrated equipment, and PA DEP certification that holds weight in legal and real estate contexts.
Certified Radon Testing Companies in Allentown
Several PA DEP certified radon testers serve the Allentown area. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection maintains an updated Radon Services Directory that lists all certified testing firms and individual testers.
Notable Lehigh Valley radon testing providers include:
- Allied Inspection Services (Allentown-based, PADEP certified)
- SWAT Environmental (serving Lehigh County)
- Integra Environmental
- 360 Inspections
- Lehigh Valley Radon Testers
Always verify current PA DEP certification before hiring any radon professional—certifications require renewal and testing competency verification. You can download the current PA DEP certified testers list (PDF).
Radon Testing During Home Inspection: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Real estate transactions in Allentown add urgency to radon testing. Here’s what you need to understand if you’re buying or selling a home in Lehigh County.
For Home Buyers
Pennsylvania law doesn’t require radon testing—but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. The PA DEP strongly recommends testing every home before purchase, especially in Zone 1 areas like Allentown.
During your home inspection period:
- Request professional radon testing as part of your inspection contingency
- Use a PA DEP certified radon tester with continuous monitoring equipment
- Ensure closed-house radon testing conditions (windows/doors closed 12+ hours)
- Plan for at least 48-72 hours of testing time
- Get results interpreted by the testing professional
If radon levels come back at or above 4 pCi/L, you have negotiating options:
- Request the seller install a radon mitigation system
- Negotiate a price reduction to cover mitigation costs
- Ask for a radon remediation escrow credit
Average radon mitigation system cost in the Lehigh Valley runs $1,200-$2,500 depending on your home’s size and foundation type. If you need professional radon mitigation services in Lehigh County, certified contractors can help protect your home.
Watch how mitigation systems work:
How a Radon Mitigation System Works
For Home Sellers
Smart sellers in Allentown do pre-listing radon testing and proactively install mitigation systems if needed. Here’s why this strategy makes sense:
- Demonstrates transparency and builds buyer confidence
- Avoids surprises during buyer’s inspection period
- Potentially increases home value and marketability
- Prevents deal-killing discoveries late in negotiations
A professionally installed radon mitigation system comes with warranties and post-mitigation verification testing, giving buyers peace of mind.
How Radon Enters Pennsylvania Homes: Understanding Your Risk Factors
Not all Allentown homes have equal radon risk. Several factors influence how much radon enters your living space:
Foundation Type:
- Basement homes: Highest risk due to large foundation-to-soil contact
- Crawl space homes: Moderate to high risk
- Slab-on-grade homes: Lower but not zero risk
Foundation Condition:
- Cracks in basement floors or walls create radon entry points
- Gaps around utility penetrations (water pipes, electrical conduits)
- Unsealed sump pump pits act as direct radon channels
- French drains and below-slab drainage systems
Soil Characteristics:
- Sandy, gravelly soil allows easier radon movement
- Reading Prong geology = elevated uranium content in bedrock
- Soil permeability affects radon transport to your foundation
Home Pressurization:
- Heating systems create negative pressure, pulling soil gases indoors
- Exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens increase suction
- Airtight home construction can worsen radon accumulation
Winter Radon Testing in Allentown: Why Cold Months Matter
Here’s something most homeowners don’t realize: radon levels fluctuate seasonally, and winter typically brings the highest indoor radon concentrations.
Why? The thermal stack effect. During cold months:
- Warm indoor air rises and escapes through upper levels
- This creates negative pressure in basements
- Soil gases (including radon) get sucked in through foundation
- Snow cover acts as a barrier, forcing radon into your home rather than dispersing into atmosphere
That’s why many radon professionals recommend winter radon testing for the most conservative, worst-case assessment of your home’s radon levels.
Interpreting Radon Test Results: What Your pCi/L Numbers Mean
You got your radon test results back—now what? Let me help you make sense of those picocuries per liter (pCi/L) measurements.
EPA Action Levels and Recommendations:
| Radon Level | EPA Recommendation | Risk Context |
|---|---|---|
| Below 2 pCi/L | Consider mitigation; no level is truly “safe” | Lower risk but not zero |
| 2-4 pCi/L | EPA suggests considering mitigation | Moderate risk; some risk reduction beneficial |
| 4-10 pCi/L | Fix your home (EPA action level) | Significant risk; mitigation recommended |
| 10-20 pCi/L | Fix your home urgently | High risk; mitigation essential |
| Above 20 pCi/L | Fix your home immediately; consider temporary relocation | Very high risk; emergency action needed |
Pennsylvania’s Position:
The PA DEP follows EPA guidelines with the 4 pCi/L action level, but they also emphasize that any reduction in radon exposure reduces lung cancer risk. Even homes testing at 2-3 pCi/L benefit from radon mitigation.
Radon Test Results Interpretation: The Hidden Details
Your radon test report should include:
- Average radon concentration over the test period
- Testing dates and duration
- Testing location within your home
- Weather conditions during testing
- Lab certification information
- Testing protocol compliance notes
One critical detail many miss: A single test represents only the conditions during that specific timeframe. Radon levels can vary significantly based on:
- Season (winter vs. summer)
- Weather patterns
- Home ventilation changes
- Soil moisture levels
That’s why confirmation testing or long-term monitoring provides more reliable data.
Radon Testing Costs in Lehigh Valley: What to Expect
Let’s talk money. What will radon testing actually cost you in Allentown?
DIY Radon Test Kit Costs:
- Charcoal canister: $15-$30
- Alpha track detector: $25-$40
- Long-term electronic monitor: $100-$200
Professional Radon Testing Services:
- Basic continuous monitor test (48-72 hours): $150-$200
- Comprehensive testing with detailed report: $175-$250
- Post-mitigation verification testing: $100-$150
- Real estate transaction testing: $150-$250
Is professional testing worth the extra cost?
Absolutely, especially for home purchases. Here’s why: professional radon testers use calibrated, tamper-evident continuous radon monitors that provide legally defensible results. They also ensure proper testing protocol compliance and expert interpretation.
For routine monitoring in your current home, DIY kits work just fine—but for anything involving real estate, insurance, or legal implications, spend the extra money for certified professional testing.
Best Radon Testing Methods: Comparing Accuracy and Reliability
Not all radon tests are created equal. Let me break down the accuracy comparison between different testing methods.
Charcoal Canister Accuracy:
- Margin of error: ±20-25% at best
- Highly sensitive to humidity and temperature
- Best for: Initial screening tests
- Research shows: ±90% uncertainty when estimating annual averages
Alpha Track Detector Accuracy:
- Margin of error: ±5% for long-term deployment
- Not affected by weather fluctuations
- Best for: Determining true annual average exposure
- Gold standard for accuracy over time
Continuous Radon Monitor (CRM) Accuracy:
- Margin of error: ±10-15% depending on device and duration
- Provides hour-by-hour data
- Best for: Professional testing, real estate transactions
- Devices like RadonEye Pro, Airthings, and professional Radalink systems
RadonEye Pro vs. Airthings Comparison:
Both are popular continuous radon monitors for homeowners. The RadonEye Pro offers professional-grade sensitivity and faster response times, while Airthings devices integrate with smart home systems and provide additional air quality metrics. For pure radon monitoring accuracy, professional-grade continuous monitors remain superior to consumer devices.
PA DEP Radon Testing Protocols and Closed-House Conditions
Pennsylvania has specific requirements for radon testing, especially in real estate transactions. Understanding these protocols ensures your test results are valid and defensible.
Video on proper testing conditions:
How to Maintain Closed-House Conditions for Radon Testing
Closed-House Radon Testing Conditions
The Protocol:
- Close all exterior windows and doors 12 hours before testing begins
- Keep them closed throughout the entire test period
- Normal entry and exit is okay—just don’t leave doors open
- Don’t operate whole-house ventilation systems or window air conditioners
- Ceiling fans and furnace/AC with recirculating air are acceptable
Why these conditions matter:
Closed-house conditions simulate worst-case radon accumulation—the conditions most likely to occur during winter when homes are sealed tight. This provides the most conservative (highest) radon reading, ensuring you’re not underestimating your risk.
48-Hour Radon Test Protocol for Real Estate
For home purchase inspections, the standard is a minimum 48-hour test using a continuous radon monitor. This balances accuracy with the time constraints of real estate transactions.
Best practices:
- Place the device in the lowest livable area (finished or unfinished basement)
- Position it at least 20 inches off the floor
- Keep it away from exterior walls (at least 3 feet)
- Avoid locations near windows, doors, or air vents
- Document the testing conditions
The PA DEP requires that testers maintain proper protocols and documentation. If you’re doing a DIY test for a home sale, follow these same protocols to avoid buyer disputes later.
EPA Radon Testing Guidelines and Standards for Pennsylvania
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides comprehensive radon testing guidance, which Pennsylvania has adopted and sometimes enhanced.
Key EPA Recommendations for Allentown Homeowners:
- Test your home every 2 years, even if previous tests were below 4 pCi/L (radon levels change)
- Test after any major renovations, especially those affecting foundation or ventilation
- Test all lived-in levels of your home if you have multiple stories
- Retest after installing a radon mitigation system to verify effectiveness
- Test in the lowest livable area first, then test other levels if elevated
Access the official EPA Radon Map for Pennsylvania to see Zone designations.
National Radon Safety Board Certification
Beyond PA DEP certification, some radon professionals hold National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) or National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) certifications. These national credentials demonstrate additional training and competency.
When hiring a radon professional, look for:
- Active PA DEP certification (verify at pa.gov radon services directory)
- National certification (NRPP or NRSB)
- Professional liability insurance
- Experience in Lehigh Valley geology
- References from recent clients
Lehigh County Radon Statistics: Understanding Local Risk
Let’s look at what the data tells us about radon in our specific area.
Pennsylvania Statewide Statistics:
- 40% of homes test at or above 4 pCi/L
- Every county has elevated radon potential
- Zone 1 counties (like Lehigh) have highest percentages above action levels
Lehigh County Specific Data:
- Designated EPA Zone 1 (highest risk category)
- Home to multiple record-breaking radon measurements
- Reading Prong geology means elevated uranium in bedrock
- Higher percentage above action level than state average
Neighboring Communities:
- Fullerton, PA: High radon potential (Reading Prong location)
- Emmaus: Zone 1 designation, similar geology – check out Emmaus radon testing services nearby
- Bethlehem: Also Zone 1, shared geological formation
- New Tripoli radon mitigation: Serving northern Lehigh County
- Lynnport radon mitigation: Professional services available
- Surrounding Lehigh County areas: Consistently high readings
The takeaway? If you live anywhere in Lehigh County, radon testing isn’t optional—it’s a critical health protection measure for your family.
Radon Exposure Health Risks: Why Testing Matters
Let’s be clear about what’s at stake. Radon isn’t a distant, theoretical risk—it’s a documented cause of lung cancer that affects thousands of Americans annually.
Essential health information video:
How dangerous is radon to your health? – Risk Bites
The Medical Evidence:
- Radon causes approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the U.S.
- It’s the #1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers
- Risk increases with higher radon levels and longer exposure duration
- Smokers exposed to radon face dramatically elevated risk
What happens physiologically:
Radon decays into radioactive particles (polonium-218 and polonium-214) that attach to dust particles in the air. When you breathe these in, they lodge in your lung tissue and emit alpha radiation, damaging cells and potentially causing cancerous mutations over time.
Children and radon exposure:
Children breathe faster than adults and have developing tissues, making them potentially more vulnerable to radon’s effects. If your Allentown home has elevated radon, your kids are receiving unnecessary radiation exposure every single day.
Testing is the first step. Mitigation is the solution.
Radon Testing Frequency Recommendations: How Often Should You Test?
You tested once and found acceptable levels—are you done? Not quite.
EPA and PA DEP Recommendations:
- Test every 2 years as a baseline
- Retest after significant home renovations
- Test when you add livable basement space
- Retest if you install or remove ventilation systems
- Verify after installing a radon mitigation system
- Test when purchasing or selling your home
Why repeated testing matters:
Radon levels aren’t static. They fluctuate based on:
- Foundation settling and new cracks forming
- Changes to your home’s HVAC system
- Modifications to basement waterproofing
- Seasonal variations
- Changes in soil moisture and permeability
I know people who tested at 2.5 pCi/L five years ago and recently retested at 7.2 pCi/L. Things change. Regular testing catches problems before years of exposure accumulate.
Post-Mitigation Radon Testing: Verifying Your System Works
If you’ve installed a radon mitigation system in your Allentown home (or the previous owner did), congratulations—you’ve taken an important health protection step. But here’s what many homeowners don’t realize: mitigation systems need verification testing and periodic monitoring.
Video on system verification:
How to Check If Your Radon Mitigation System is Working
Post-mitigation testing protocol:
- Test within 30 days of system installation
- Use the same testing protocols (closed-house conditions)
- Test in the same location as original test
- Verify radon levels dropped below 4 pCi/L (ideally below 2 pCi/L)
Ongoing mitigation system monitoring:
- Most systems include a manometer (U-tube) that shows fan suction
- Check the manometer monthly to ensure system is functioning
- Test radon levels every 2 years
- Inspect fan and pipes annually for damage
- Listen for unusual fan noises indicating bearing wear
System maintenance:
Radon mitigation system fans typically last 5-10 years. Plan for eventual fan replacement as part of home maintenance. The good news? Once installed, systems are relatively low-maintenance and cost only $50-$120 annually to operate.
Free and Low-Cost Radon Testing Options for Pennsylvania Residents
Budget shouldn’t prevent radon testing. Several programs make testing accessible to all Allentown homeowners.
Free Radon Test Kit Programs:
1. Pennsylvania DEP Free Confirmation Test Kits
If your initial test shows radon levels above 100 pCi/L (extremely high), the PA DEP provides free confirmation test kits. Call the PA Radon Hotline: 800-237-2366 or 717-783-3594.
2. American Lung Association
Periodically offers free or discounted radon test kits to Pennsylvania residents. Check their website or call for current availability.
3. Local Health Departments
Some Lehigh County health initiatives occasionally distribute free test kits during Radon Action Month (January) or other awareness campaigns.
Low-Cost Options:
- National Radon Program Services at Kansas State University: Order kits online or call 1-800-SOS-RADON (1-800-767-7236) for affordable test kits starting around $15
- Hardware store kits: Available at Lowe’s, Home Depot, and local hardware stores for $15-$30
- Online retailers: Often offer bulk discounts if you’re testing multiple areas
DEP Radon Zip Code Lookup Tool:
Visit the PA DEP website to access their radon risk lookup tool by zip code. While not a substitute for testing, it helps you understand your area’s risk level.
Scheduling Radon Testing in Allentown Today
Ready to test your home? Here’s your action plan.
For DIY Testing:
- Purchase a radon test kit (local hardware store or online)
- Read instructions completely before starting
- Close windows and doors 12 hours before deploying test
- Place kit in lowest livable area
- Leave undisturbed for required time period (usually 2-7 days)
- Package and mail to laboratory as directed
- Receive results in 2-3 weeks
- Interpret results against EPA guidelines
For Professional Testing:
- Search the PA DEP Radon Services Directory
- Contact 2-3 certified radon testers in Allentown
- Compare pricing, timeline, and services
- Schedule your test (48-72 hours needed)
- Prepare your home (closed-house conditions)
- Receive detailed report with professional interpretation
- Discuss mitigation options if levels are elevated
Questions to ask radon testing professionals:
- Are you currently PA DEP certified? (Verify certification number)
- What type of equipment do you use?
- How long will the test take?
- When will I receive results?
- Do you also provide mitigation services, or just testing?
- What’s included in the testing fee?
- Can you explain the results and next steps?
Radon Water Testing in Allentown: An Often-Overlooked Source
Most radon discussions focus on radon in air—but if you have a private well in Lehigh County, radon in your water deserves attention too.
How radon enters water:
Groundwater passing through uranium-rich Reading Prong bedrock can pick up dissolved radon gas. When that water reaches your home and you use it for showering, washing dishes, or laundry, radon releases into your indoor air.
Should you test your water?
The EPA recommends water testing if:
- You have a private well (municipal water systems aerate water, reducing radon)
- Air tests show elevated radon without obvious soil-gas sources
- You’re on a granite or similar bedrock formation (like the Reading Prong)
Radon water test kits:
Available from specialized labs, these tests measure radon in water using picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA suggests considering water treatment if levels exceed 10,000 pCi/L in water (this contributes about 1 pCi/L to indoor air).
Water treatment options:
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters
- Aeration systems
- Point-of-entry treatment
For most Allentown homes on municipal water, water-source radon isn’t a concern—but rural Lehigh County homeowners with wells should consider testing.
What To Do If Your Radon Test Shows Elevated Levels
You got your results back, and your Allentown home tested at 6.8 pCi/L. Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. Here’s your step-by-step response plan.
Immediate Steps:
1. Confirm the Results
If your first test used a short-term charcoal canister, consider a confirmation test using:
- A second short-term test (side-by-side for real estate)
- A long-term alpha track detector (for annual average)
- Professional continuous monitoring
2. Research Mitigation Options
Radon mitigation isn’t as expensive or disruptive as many homeowners fear. Active soil depressurization (the most common method) involves:
- Installing a PVC pipe from below your basement floor slab
- Running it through your home to above the roofline
- Adding a fan to create suction
- Continuously venting radon before it enters your home
Learn about mitigation installation:
How to Install a Radon Mitigation System
3. Get Multiple Quotes
Contact 2-3 PA DEP certified radon mitigation contractors for quotes. Expect costs between $1,200-$2,500 depending on:
- Your home’s size and foundation type
- Complexity of installation
- Aesthetic considerations (pipe routing)
- Warranty provisions
4. Don’t Delay
Every day of delay means continued radiation exposure. Most mitigation installations take just 1-2 days, and you can remain in your home during installation.
5. Verify Success
After mitigation system installation, conduct post-mitigation testing to confirm radon levels dropped below 4 pCi/L (most systems achieve levels below 2 pCi/L).
Radon Resources and Support for Lehigh Valley Homeowners
You’re not alone in dealing with radon concerns. Numerous resources support Allentown homeowners.
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP)
- Radon Division: 717-783-3594
- PA Radon Hotline: 800-237-2366
- Website: pa.gov radon resources
- Services: Free consultation, test kit information, interpretation assistance
EPA Radon Resources
- EPA Radon Website: Comprehensive testing and mitigation guides
- EPA Radon Zones Map: Interactive map showing risk by county
- Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction: Free downloadable PDF
National Organizations
- National Radon Safety Board (NRSB): Certifies radon professionals
- National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP): Professional certification and standards
- American Lung Association: Health information and awareness campaigns
Local Support
- Lehigh County Health Department: Occasional free test kit distributions
- Muhlenberg College: Has participated in radon research projects
- Local radon professionals: Many offer free consultations and education
Online Tools
- PA DEP Radon Services Directory: Search certified testers and mitigators by zip code
- Radon Map Pennsylvania: Interactive mapping of test results across the state
Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing in Allentown
Q: How long does radon testing take?
A: Short-term tests run 2-7 days, with results available 1-2 weeks after mailing to the lab. Professional continuous monitoring provides results within 48-72 hours. Long-term alpha track tests require 90+ days but offer the most accurate annual average.
Q: Can I test for radon in summer?
A: Yes, but winter testing typically provides worst-case (highest) readings due to closed-house conditions and the thermal stack effect. Testing in multiple seasons gives the most complete picture.
Q: Will opening windows lower my radon test results?
A: Absolutely—that’s why closed-house conditions are required. Opening windows during testing invalidates results and underestimates your true radon risk.
Q: How accurate are home radon test kits?
A: Accuracy varies by type. Charcoal canisters have ±20-25% margins of error, alpha track detectors are accurate to ±5%, and professional continuous monitors fall in between at ±10-15%. All are sufficiently accurate for decision-making when protocols are followed correctly.
Q: Do radon levels change over time?
A: Yes. Foundation settling, renovations, weather patterns, and seasonal changes all affect radon entry. That’s why EPA recommends testing every 2 years even if previous tests were acceptable.
Q: Is the basement the only place I need to test?
A: Start with the lowest livable area (usually the basement), where radon concentrations are typically highest. If that test is elevated, consider testing upper floors. If you spend significant time in a basement bedroom, office, or living space, testing there first makes sense.
Q: Can I test for radon myself, or do I need a professional?
A: DIY testing is perfectly acceptable for personal knowledge and initial screening. Professional testing is recommended (and often required) for real estate transactions, post-mitigation verification, and situations requiring legally defensible results.
Q: What’s the difference between a screening test and a confirmation test?
A: A screening test is your initial test to determine if you have a potential problem. A confirmation test is a follow-up (often using a different test type or longer duration) to verify elevated results before investing in mitigation.
Q: Does every home in Allentown have high radon?
A: Not every home, but the risk is significantly higher here than in most U.S. locations. The only way to know your specific home’s radon level is to test—neighboring homes can have vastly different results despite similar construction.
Q: Can radon mitigation systems increase my home’s value?
A: While mitigation systems themselves don’t typically add value, they remove a significant health concern and liability, making your home more marketable. Some buyers specifically look for homes with systems already installed, viewing it as a positive feature.
Take Action Today: Protect Your Allentown Home from Radon
If you’ve made it this far, you understand something many Allentown homeowners don’t: radon is a serious, measurable health risk that’s entirely manageable once you know it’s there. Living in EPA Zone 1 on the Reading Prong doesn’t mean you’re doomed to elevated radon exposure—it simply means testing isn’t optional.
Here’s the bottom line: radon testing is cheap, quick, and potentially life-saving. For less than the cost of a nice dinner out, you can purchase a DIY test kit and know within a couple weeks whether your home has elevated radon. If you’re buying or selling, invest in professional testing for peace of mind and defensible results.
The Lehigh Valley’s geology isn’t going to change. That uranium-rich bedrock beneath us will keep producing radon for millions of years. But you can change your family’s exposure—starting today.
Don’t wait for Radon Action Month. Don’t wait until you’re selling. Don’t wait for a health scare. Test your home now. If levels are elevated, modern radon mitigation systems are incredibly effective, reducing radon levels by 90%+ in most homes.
Your action checklist:
✅ Order a radon test kit or schedule professional testing
✅ Follow closed-house testing protocols
✅ Interpret results against EPA’s 4 pCi/L action level
✅ If elevated, get quotes from PA DEP certified mitigation contractors
✅ Install mitigation system if needed
✅ Verify results with post-mitigation testing
✅ Retest every 2 years
Living in Allentown means beautiful Lehigh Valley scenery, great communities, and rich Pennsylvania history. It also means elevated radon potential—but that’s a risk you can measure, manage, and virtually eliminate.
The invisible threat beneath your home doesn’t have to be an invisible danger inside your home. Test for radon today.