Charcoal Canister (PC275, PC400, and PC400DB) Instructions

 

ADDITIONAL RADON TESTING INFORMATION

The following guidelines are condensed from the most recent U.S. EPA radon testing protocols.

Charcoal Canister (PC275, PC400, and PC400DB) Instructions

In order to provide a valid test result, the test must be performed under Closed Building Conditions. Maintain these conditions in the home for 12 hours before and during the entire test.

  • Closed building conditions must be maintained throughout the entire home or building, not just the test area.
  • Keep all exterior doors closed except for normal entry and exit. Keep all windows closed.
  • Leave radon mitigation systems operating.
  • Set HVAC systems to “Auto” and set window units to recirculate. Dehumidifiers may be operated.
  • Do not operate whole house exhaust fans, wood or coal stoves (unless they are the primary source of heat).
  • Unusual weather conditions affect test results. Do not perform the test during sustained high winds, heavy rain or extreme indoor conditions of heat, cold or humidity. Short term tests should not be placed in areas of high humidity. If humidity is unavoidable, tests placed in humid areas should not be exposed for more than 72 hours (3 days). A longer test duration may invalidate results.
  • If this test is associated with the purchase or sale of a home, the ANSI/AARST Time-Sensitive Testing Protocol recommends 2 devices be placed side by side, 4 inches apart in the selected test area
  • Perform the test in the lowest area of the home that could be used regularly, whether it is currently finished or unfinished.
  • Choose a location that is at least 3 feet away from an outside door, wall or window, 2 feet from the floor or ceiling, and 4 inches from other objects.
  • Do not test in a kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, or any area with high humidity.
  • Do not test in closets or crawl spaces.
  • Do not place devices on stone surfaces, such as granite or marble.
  • Do not place test devices directly under blowing air.
  • Start the test before the expiration date on the device or your results may be invalid.
  • Click here or scan the QR code on the instructions you received with your device. Complete the initial test data form.
  • Remove the tape and lid from the canister and tape the lid to the bottom of the canister. Place the device in the selected location. Save the box for returning devices to the lab.
  • PC275s and PC400s (black tape): Leave in place for at least 48 hours and no more than 96 hours.
  • PC400DBs (red tape): Leave in place for at least 72 hours and no more than 168 hours.
  • DO NOT touch or move the device during the test.
  • If the devices are exposed for longer than the recommended test period, results may be invalid.
  • At the end of the test period, securely replace the original lid of the device. All lids should fit easily and snugly. Tape around the outside seam of the canister.
  • Click here or scan the QR code on the instructions you received with your device. Complete and submit the remaining test data.
  • Return closed device to AccuStar right away.
  • Radon decays quickly. For best results, the lab should receive your short-term device within 4 days, but no more than 7 days after the end of the test.
  • We recommend that you return your test device(s) via UPS or FedEx due to increasing delays in USPS deliveries, especially around postal holidays. Contact AccuStar for return shipping labels at reduced prices. AccuStar is not responsible for any mail delays resulting in invalid results, nor any costs associated with return shipping. No deliveries are accepted on weekends or holidays.

Reports are issued Monday-Friday. AccuStar emails the report to the email address that was provided on the Data Sheet. Click here for 24-hour access to information about your radon test. You must have your device number(s) and zip code of the property tested. Please contact us to request printed reports.

If your test report is incomplete due to errors or missing information, you must send the required information to AccuStar in writing, by mail, email, or here on our website.