Reno's Relief: Cheap AC Hiding Summer Radon Harm?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 28, 2025

Imagine waking up one morning in your cozy Reno home, the crisp desert air filtered by your energy-efficient AC, only to discover that you’ve been breathing in a silent, invisible threat for years. That threat is radon, a radioactive gas that’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. And here in Reno, with our unique geological makeup and energy-conscious homes, it’s a risk we can’t afford to ignore.

Radon is a naturally occurring gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s odorless, tasteless, and invisible, making it impossible to detect without testing. The problem is compounded in energy-efficient homes, where tightly sealed windows and doors, coupled with recirculating AC systems, can trap radon indoors, allowing it to accumulate to dangerous levels. This is especially pertinent in Reno, where we rely heavily on air conditioning during the scorching summer months.

So, how do you protect yourself and your family? The answer is simple: test your home for radon.

DIY Radon Testing in Reno: A Step-by-Step Guide

The most accessible and affordable way to test for radon is by using a DIY radon test kit. These kits are readily available at local Reno hardware stores like Lowe’s on South Virginia Street, Home Depot on Damonte Ranch Parkway, and Ace Hardware on Mae Anne Avenue. They typically cost between $25 and $50.

Here’s how to use them effectively:

Choose the Right Kit: There are two main types of DIY radon test kits: short-term and long-term. Short-term kits provide results in 2-7 days, while long-term kits require 90 days or more. For a quick assessment, a short-term kit is suitable, but a long-term kit offers a more accurate representation of your home’s average radon level. Given Reno’s fluctuating weather patterns, a long-term test is generally recommended.
Placement is Key: The test kit should be placed in the lowest livable area of your home. This is typically the basement, but if you don’t have a basement, choose the ground floor. Avoid placing the kit in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or near drafts, exterior walls, or areas with high humidity. In Reno, consider the side of your home most shaded during the day, as temperature fluctuations can affect readings.
Follow Instructions Precisely: Each kit comes with specific instructions that must be followed carefully. This includes the height at which the kit should be placed (usually 2-6 feet above the floor), the duration of the test, and how to seal and return the kit to the lab for analysis.
Maintain Closed-House Conditions: During the test period, it’s crucial to maintain “closed-house conditions.” This means keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible, except for normal entry and exit. Avoid using whole-house fans or opening windows for ventilation. This is particularly important in Reno during the summer, when we’re tempted to open windows to enjoy the evening breeze. Resist the urge!
Send the Kit Promptly: Once the test period is complete, seal the kit according to the instructions and mail it to the lab immediately. Delays can affect the accuracy of the results.

Understanding Nevada’s Radon Risk and Reno-Specific Considerations

Nevada, including Washoe County and Reno, is considered a moderate-risk area for radon. The Nevada Radon Education Program at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) provides valuable resources, including radon risk maps that show the potential for elevated radon levels in different areas of the state. These maps are a good starting point, but they shouldn’t be used as a substitute for testing your own home.

Reno’s unique geological features, such as its proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains and its volcanic soil, can contribute to higher radon levels in some areas. Homes built on or near granite formations are particularly susceptible. Furthermore, the age and construction of your home can also play a role. Older homes with cracks in the foundation or poorly sealed basements are more likely to have radon problems.

What to Do if Your Radon Levels Are High

The EPA recommends taking action to mitigate radon levels if they are at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If your DIY test results indicate elevated radon levels, don’t panic. Radon mitigation is a common and effective process.

Here’s what to do:

Confirm Your Results: It’s always a good idea to conduct a second test to confirm the initial results, especially if you used a short-term kit. A long-term test will provide a more accurate average radon level.
Contact a Qualified Radon Mitigation Professional: Don’t attempt to mitigate radon yourself. Radon mitigation requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and techniques. Contact a qualified, licensed radon mitigation professional in Washoe County. The Nevada Radon Education Program at UNR can provide a list of certified professionals.
Understand Mitigation Options: The most common radon mitigation technique is soil suction, which involves installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation and vent it safely outside. Other mitigation options include sealing cracks and openings in the foundation, improving ventilation, and installing a radon sump system.
Consider Reno’s Climate: When choosing a mitigation system, consider Reno’s climate. The system should be designed to withstand the extreme temperature fluctuations and occasional heavy snowfall we experience. Ensure the vent pipe is properly insulated to prevent condensation and freezing.

Affordable Mitigation Strategies for Reno Residents

Radon mitigation can be expensive, but there are ways to make it more affordable:

Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several radon mitigation professionals to compare prices and services.
Inquire About Discounts: Ask about discounts for seniors, veterans, or low-income families.
Explore Financing Options: Some contractors offer financing options to help spread out the cost of mitigation.
Check for Rebates: Check with the Nevada Radon Education Program and local utility companies for potential rebates or financial assistance programs.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls

Ignoring the Problem: The biggest mistake is ignoring the potential for radon in your home. Don’t assume that because your neighbor’s home has low radon levels, yours will too.
Improper Testing: Failing to follow the instructions on the test kit can lead to inaccurate results.
DIY Mitigation: Attempting to mitigate radon yourself can be dangerous and ineffective.
Choosing an Unqualified Contractor: Hiring an unlicensed or unqualified contractor can result in a poorly installed mitigation system that doesn’t effectively reduce radon levels.

Real-World Scenario: The Smith Family of Sparks, Nevada

The Smith family, residents of Sparks, Nevada, had lived in their home for over 20 years. They had never considered testing for radon until they learned about the risks from a local news report. They purchased a DIY radon test kit from a hardware store and followed the instructions carefully. The results came back showing elevated radon levels.

Initially, they were concerned about the cost of mitigation. However, after contacting several radon mitigation professionals and exploring financing options, they were able to find an affordable solution. The contractor installed a soil suction system, which effectively reduced the radon levels in their home to below the EPA action level. The Smith family now has peace of mind knowing that they have protected their health and the health of their children.

Radon is a serious health hazard, but it’s also a preventable one. By testing your home for radon and taking action to mitigate elevated levels, you can protect yourself and your family from this silent killer. Don’t wait. Take control of your indoor air quality today.