The Home Almanac

Vol. I, MMXXVIThe Canadian home, in season655 stations, every province and territory

Radon Test Calculator

Schedule a radon test window, keep it inside the heating season when possible, and compare a lab result with the Health Canada guideline.

A long-term radon test started October 1 runs through 2026-12-31; a 240 Bq/m3 result is above the Canadian guideline and should follow Health Canada action guidance.

How to use it

  1. Choose a test type. Use a long-term test for the main schedule, or a short-term test for quick screening.
  2. Pick the start date. Choose when the detector will be placed in the lowest lived-in level of the home.
  3. Add the lab result if you have it. Enter the Bq/m3 result only after the lab report comes back.
  4. Read the schedule and guideline note. Use the test window, retest reminder, and Health Canada action wording as planning guidance.

How this works

The calculator uses 91 days for a long-term test, 7 days for a short-term screen, and October through April as the heating-season target window. It then sets a 5-year retest reminder and compares any entered result with the Canadian guideline.

Sources

Radon test length, heating-season retest advice, the 200 Bq/m3 guideline, and current corrective-action timing follow Health Canada's residential radon measurement guide and Health Canada's radon guideline page. Use the lab report and a certified radon professional for mitigation decisions.

Radon test questions

When should I start a radon test?

For a long-term home test, start during the heating season when the house is more closed up. Health Canada uses at least 91 days for a valid long-term residential result.

What radon level triggers action in Canada?

The Canadian radon guideline is 200 Bq/m3. Health Canada currently recommends mitigation within 1 year above that level, and sooner when the level is higher.

Can a short-term radon test decide whether to remediate?

A short-term test can screen for a possible issue, but Health Canada says corrective action decisions should be based on tests of at least 91 days.

How often should I retest for radon?

Retest after major renovations, energy retrofits, excavation near the home, mitigation work, or about every 5 years for ongoing checks.

Does this calculator diagnose health risk?

No. It schedules testing and compares a lab result with the Canadian guideline. It does not diagnose exposure, illness, or individual risk.