Radon Testing in Chicago
Radon is invisible, odorless, and the second leading cause of lung cancer — and Illinois is a high-radon state. We test your home with calibrated equipment, explain your results in plain English, and give you honest next-step guidance.
Radon testing for Chicago homes & condos
Illinois sits on radon-producing bedrock, and the gas seeps up through foundation cracks and gaps around pipes. Because you can't see or smell it, the only way to know your level is to test.
AirFresh Inc. is a locally owned company in nearby Northbrook, serving homeowners across Chicago and Chicagoland. We place a calibrated radon monitor in the lowest livable area of your home, run the test under proper closed-house conditions, then explain exactly what your result means against the EPA's 4.0 pCi/L action level.
Why test for radon
A simple test that protects your family and your home's value.
When you should test for radon
The EPA recommends testing in these situations:
Not sure where to start? Request a free quote and we'll help you plan a test.
How our radon testing works
A simple, standards-based process with clear results at the end.
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Schedule your test
Tell us your timeline — including tight real-estate deadlines — and we'll book a visit that works for you.
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Place the monitor
We position a calibrated radon monitor in the lowest livable area of your home, where radon tends to collect.
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Closed-house conditions
You live normally, but keep windows and exterior doors closed so the measurement reflects true indoor levels.
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Measure over 48+ hours
A short-term test runs at least 48 hours; longer tests give an even fuller picture of year-round exposure.
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Analyze & interpret
We review your data and compare it against the EPA's 4.0 pCi/L action level to see where your home stands.
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Clear results & next steps
You get your numbers explained in plain English, plus honest guidance — including mitigation only if it's warranted.
Understanding your radon results
Radon is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Here's what your number means.
Guidance based on the U.S. EPA action level. Radon levels can vary by season and over time, so periodic retesting is recommended.
Radon testing across Chicago & Chicagoland
Based in Northbrook, we test homes throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs — including Evanston, Oak Park, Skokie, Cicero, Park Ridge, Niles, Lincolnwood, and Wilmette.
Not sure you're in range? We often serve nearby towns too — just ask. See Chicago, IL service details or browse all service areas.
High radon? We can fix it
If your test comes back at or above the EPA action level, our radon mitigation systems lower levels and keep them low — then we retest to confirm.
Learn about radon mitigation →What Chicago homeowners say
"We needed a radon test fast for our home sale and AirFresh made it painless. They set up the monitor, explained the closed-house rules, and had clear documented results back to us within days. Our agent was impressed."
— Rachel Kaminski
Google Review ★★★★★
"After finishing our basement we wanted to be sure it was safe for the kids. The technician was on time, walked us through everything, and our numbers came back low. Honest and professional — no pressure to buy anything extra."
— Brian Novak
Google Review ★★★★★
"Our test showed elevated radon, which was scary at first, but they explained our options calmly and clearly. We went ahead with mitigation and the retest confirmed it dropped well below the action level. Highly recommend."
— Priya Desai
Google Review ★★★★★
Radon testing FAQs
Is radon really dangerous?
Yes. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas you can't see, smell, or taste, and the EPA identifies it as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. Because there are no immediate symptoms, testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated levels. Illinois is considered a high-radon state, so testing is strongly recommended.
How long does a radon test take?
A standard short-term test typically runs 2 to 7 days, with a minimum of 48 hours of closed-house conditions. Real-estate transactions usually use a 48-hour test to fit inspection timelines. For a fuller picture of year-round exposure, a long-term test can run 90 days or more. We'll help you pick the right test for your situation.
What is the EPA action level for radon?
The EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon at 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) or higher. Levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L are still worth considering for mitigation, since there's no completely safe level of radon. We explain exactly where your result falls and what your options are.
Do I need to leave my home during the test?
No. You can live in your home normally, but closed-house conditions must be maintained: keep windows and exterior doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and avoid running whole-house fans. We place the monitor in the lowest livable area and give you simple instructions to keep the test valid.
Can you test during a real-estate transaction?
Yes. We regularly perform radon tests for buyers and sellers on tight closing timelines, using a 48-hour measurement and providing documented results you can share with your agent or attorney. Let us know your deadline and we'll schedule around it.
What happens if my radon level is high?
Don't panic — elevated radon is common and very fixable. If your result is at or above 4.0 pCi/L, we walk you through the findings and your options, including radon mitigation, which uses a vent system to lower levels and keep them low. After a system is installed, we retest to confirm it's working.
Why hire a pro instead of a DIY kit?
DIY kits can work, but they're easy to place incorrectly, are affected by household conditions, and rely on you mailing them to a lab and interpreting the results yourself. A professional test uses calibrated equipment, correct placement and closed-house protocol, and a clear explanation of what your numbers mean and what to do next.
How often should I test for radon?
Test at least every two years, and again after any major renovation, after buying a home, or after installing a mitigation system. Radon levels can change over time as a home settles and as seasons change, so periodic testing is the best way to stay protected.
Know your radon level for peace of mind
Request a free, no-obligation quote for professional radon testing in Chicago & Chicagoland — licensed, insured, and backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.