Introduction:
In today’s age of DIY home improvement, homeowners in Ottawa are more proactive than ever when it comes to safety and health. We install our own smoke alarms, insulate our attics, and fix leaky faucets — so it’s natural to ask: Can I do radon testing myself in Ottawa?
The answer is yes, absolutely. In fact, DIY radon testing is not only possible, but it’s also affordable, effective, and encouraged by Health Canada. That said, understanding how to do it properly — and when to rely on professionals — is crucial.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about DIY radon gas testing Ottawa, including how it works, what tools to use, how to interpret results, and when to consider calling in the pros.
What Is Radon — and Why Should You Care?
The Basics
Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It moves upward through the earth and can seep into buildings through cracks, pipes, and crawl spaces. Once inside, radon can become trapped — especially in energy-efficient, airtight homes.
The Danger
Radon is:
- Invisible
- Odorless
- Tasteless
Despite being undetectable by human senses, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada, causing around 3,000 deaths annually, according to Health Canada.
The only way to know your exposure risk is through radon testing.
Why Ottawa Residents Need to Be Extra Vigilant
Ottawa’s Geological Makeup
Ottawa sits atop uranium-rich bedrock, including granite and shale, and features clay-heavy glacial till soils that trap and release radon. The area is especially prone to elevated radon levels.
Statistics Don’t Lie
- Over 20% of homes in Ottawa exceed Health Canada’s recommended safe limit of 200 Bq/m³ (becquerels per cubic metre).
- In some neighborhoods like Barrhaven, Kanata, Orleans, and Greely, more than 40% of homes have tested high.
- Even newly built, energy-efficient homes aren’t immune — in fact, they may trap radon more effectively due to airtight construction.
Can You Really Test for Radon Yourself?
Yes — and you should.
DIY radon testing kits are:
- Approved by Health Canada
- Affordable and easy to use
- Widely available at hardware stores and online
- Reliable, provided you follow the instructions carefully
Types of DIY Radon Test Kits
There are two main types of do-it-yourself test kits:
1. Short-Term Test Kits (2–7 Days)
- Ideal for quick checks or pre-screening
- Use charcoal canisters or electret ion chambers
- Best used when time is limited, such as during real estate transactions
Limitations: Less accurate because radon levels fluctuate daily and seasonally.
2. Long-Term Test Kits (91+ Days)
- Recommended by Health Canada
- Use alpha track detectors
- Provide a more accurate average of daily exposure
- Ideal for homeowners testing for health and safety reasons
Best Time to Use: During colder months (October–April), when homes are sealed and radon concentrations are highest.
Where to Get DIY Radon Test Kits in Ottawa
Purchase Options
- Canadian Tire
- Home Hardware
- Amazon Canada
- RadonDepot.ca
- Airthings.com
Community and Government Programs
- Take Action on Radon: Offers free or discounted long-term kits through campaigns like the 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge.
- Ottawa Public Health: Shares updates on radon awareness programs and may partner with testing initiatives.
Tip: Make sure your kit is from a C-NRPP-certified lab (Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program).
See also: How Roof Repair Services Provide Peace of Mind for Homeowners
How to Use a DIY Radon Test Kit: Step-by-Step
1. Choose the Right Location
- Place the detector in the lowest lived-in level of the home (usually the basement).
- Pick a central area: bedroom, living room, or basement office.
- Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms (due to moisture and airflow).
- Keep it 50 cm off the floor and 20 cm away from walls or other obstructions.
2. Follow the Instructions Carefully
- Record the start date and time.
- Leave the test in place for the required duration (91+ days for long-term, 2–7 days for short-term).
- Do not move or disturb the detector.
3. Send the Detector to the Lab
- Once the test period is over, package the detector as instructed and mail it to the designated lab (usually prepaid).
- Results are typically returned via email or mail within 2–4 weeks.
What If Your Radon Levels Are High?
If your radon level exceeds 200 Bq/m³, Health Canada recommends you take action.
DIY vs. Professional Mitigation
Radon mitigation typically requires professional installation, especially when it involves:
- Sub-slab depressurization (SSD) systems
- Foundation repairs
- HVAC balancing
Cost in Ottawa: $2,000 to $3,500 for full mitigation
When Should You Consider Professional Radon Testing?
While DIY tests are effective, professional testing may be a better option if:
- You’re selling your home and want fast, court-admissible results
- You’re in a real estate transaction
- You want real-time readings
- You suspect very high levels of radon and want a faster response
- You need help interpreting complex test results
Benefits of Professional Testing
- Uses Continuous Radon Monitors (CRMs)
- Offers hour-by-hour readings
- Provides expert consultation and mitigation planning
- Results available in as little as 48 hours
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Doing Radon Testing Yourself
Placing the detector too close to vents or windows
This can distort readings by reducing radon levels artificially.
Testing for too short a period
A 2–7 day test may not reflect long-term exposure.
Using expired or uncertified kits
Always check for C-NRPP certification.
Testing during renovations or HVAC changes
Wait until the home is stable for accurate readings.
Assuming your home is safe because your neighbor’s is
Radon levels vary greatly—even between adjacent houses.
How Often Should You Test?
- Every 5–10 years, or sooner if you make changes to your home’s structure or ventilation.
- After mitigation installation, to confirm effectiveness.
- When buying a new home or moving into a basement unit.
Radon and Real Estate in Ottawa
Is Testing Required?
Not yet. Ontario has no mandatory radon testing laws, but:
- Buyers are increasingly requesting it.
- Some sellers proactively test and offer mitigation to add value.
- Realtors may include radon clauses in purchase agreements.
Tip for Home Sellers
A recent DIY test with low results can help you close the deal faster and improve buyer confidence.
What Ottawa Residents Are Saying
- “I bought a $50 kit and discovered my basement had 550 Bq/m³. I wouldn’t have known otherwise.”
- — Susan M., Kanata
- “I used a community challenge kit, and it was easy. My levels were low, but I feel better knowing.”
- — Derek S., Orleans
- “Our home was over 800 Bq/m³. We had no idea. A small test kit helped us avoid a big health issue.”
- — Joanne F., Nepean
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I test in summer?
Yes, but winter testing (October–April) is better because homes are closed up, giving more accurate results.
Q2: Do air purifiers help with radon?
No. Standard HEPA and carbon filters do not remove radon gas. Specialized mitigation systems are required.
Q3: Can I use a short-term test first?
Yes, but treat it as a preliminary check. If results are near or above 200 Bq/m³, do a long-term test for confirmation.
Q4: Is there a danger to children or pets?
Yes. Children may be more susceptible due to higher respiration rates and developing lungs. Pets can also be affected by prolonged exposure.
Conclusion:
In Ottawa, where elevated radon levels are common, doing a DIY radon test is one of the simplest and smartest steps you can take to ensure the air in your home is safe.
So if you’re still wondering, “Can I do radon testing myself in Ottawa?” — the answer is a resounding YES. And there’s no better time than now.
Test your home. Know your number. Take control of your indoor air quality.
Would you like a downloadable checklist for doing your own radon test, or a printable guide for your Ottawa community?
