**Radon in Reno: Cheap Fixes Hiding Lung Cancer?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 21, 2026

The air in your Reno home might be more dangerous than you think. Invisible, odorless, and tasteless, radon gas silently seeps into homes from the ground, posing a significant health risk, especially in areas with granite-rich soil like ours. Ignoring this threat is like playing Russian roulette with your family’s health. But don’t panic! You can take control and protect your loved ones without breaking the bank.

Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the natural decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. In Reno, Nevada, the geological makeup of the region, particularly the presence of granite and volcanic rock, contributes to higher-than-average radon levels. This means Reno homeowners face a greater risk compared to those in other parts of the country. Prolonged exposure to elevated radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the EPA.

The first step is testing your home. Don’t rely on assumptions; knowledge is power. You can purchase DIY radon testing kits at several locations in Reno.

• Lowe’s Home Improvement (2550 Oddie Blvd, Sparks, NV 89431): They typically stock short-term radon test kits.
• Home Depot (5155 Sparks Blvd, Sparks, NV 89436): Similar to Lowe’s, they offer readily available test kits.
• Ace Hardware (Multiple locations in Reno): Check your local Ace Hardware for radon test kits; they often carry them seasonally.
• Online Retailers (Amazon, etc.): Convenient, but ensure the kit is EPA-approved and certified for use in Nevada.

These kits usually cost between $20 and $40. Short-term kits require minimal effort and provide results within a few days. Long-term kits, while more accurate, require testing for 90 days or more. For an initial assessment, a short-term kit is perfectly adequate.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a short-term radon test kit:

1. Choose the Right Location: Place the test kit in the lowest livable area of your home (e.g., basement, first floor if you don’t have a basement). Avoid kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and exterior walls. Pick a spot where the kit won’t be disturbed and is at least 20 inches off the floor.
2. Prepare the Room: Close windows and exterior doors 12 hours before starting the test and keep them closed during the testing period (usually 2-7 days, depending on the kit). Don’t operate fans that ventilate to the outdoors. Normal entry and exit are fine.
3. Activate the Test: Follow the specific instructions included with your kit. This usually involves opening a collection device.
4. Record the Start Date and Time: This is crucial for accurate results.
5. Leave the Test Undisturbed: Ensure the kit remains in its designated location for the entire testing period.
6. Seal and Mail the Kit: After the testing period, seal the kit according to the instructions and mail it to the lab for analysis. A prepaid envelope is usually included.

Interpreting your radon test results is critical. The EPA action level for radon is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If your test results are at or above this level, you should take steps to mitigate the radon in your home.

• Below 4 pCi/L: While considered safe, the EPA recommends considering mitigation even at levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L.
• 4 pCi/L or Higher: Mitigation is strongly recommended.

Don’t immediately jump to expensive professional remediation. Often, simple and cost-effective DIY solutions can significantly reduce radon levels.

Here are some initial steps you can take:

• Seal Cracks and Openings: Radon enters homes through cracks in foundations, walls, and slabs. Use caulk or sealant to seal these entry points. Pay close attention to areas where pipes and wires enter the house. This is especially important in older Reno homes with aging foundations.
• Improve Ventilation: Increasing ventilation can help dilute radon levels. Open windows and doors regularly, especially in the basement or lowest level of your home. Consider installing a radon fan in your basement window to actively exhaust air.
• Seal Sump Pumps: If you have a sump pump, ensure it is properly sealed. Radon can enter through the sump pit.

These DIY methods are particularly effective in Reno because many homes have crawl spaces or basements that are not adequately sealed. Addressing these vulnerabilities can make a significant difference.

However, be aware of common pitfalls:

• Ignoring the Problem: This is the biggest mistake. Radon is a silent killer, and ignoring the risk won’t make it go away.
• Improper Testing: Failing to follow the instructions on the test kit can lead to inaccurate results.
• Inadequate Sealing: Simply applying caulk haphazardly won’t solve the problem. You need to identify and seal all potential entry points.
• Assuming DIY is Always Enough: In some cases, professional mitigation is necessary, especially if DIY methods don’t bring radon levels below 4 pCi/L.

If your DIY efforts are unsuccessful, or if your initial test results are significantly high (above 10 pCi/L), it’s time to consult a qualified radon mitigation professional. They can assess your home and recommend a more comprehensive solution, such as a sub-slab depressurization system.

Sub-slab depressurization involves installing a pipe through the foundation floor and connecting it to a fan that vents radon gas outside the house. While effective, this is a more expensive option, typically costing between $800 and $2500.

For further assistance and information, contact the following resources:

• Nevada Radon Control Program: This program provides information and resources on radon testing and mitigation in Nevada. Search online for their official website.
• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): The EPA website offers comprehensive information on radon and its health risks.
• Local Reno-Sparks Home Inspectors: Many home inspectors offer radon testing services and can provide recommendations for mitigation.

Don’t let fear paralyze you. Taking proactive steps to test your Reno home for radon and implement cost-effective mitigation strategies can protect your family’s health and provide peace of mind. Start with a simple DIY test kit, and remember, even small improvements can make a big difference. Your family’s health is worth it.