September 2008
Ratings Radon test kits
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indicates Quick Pick.
Although both short-term kits appear identical and are analyzed at the same lab, they had different test results.GUIDE TO THE RATINGS
Overall score is based on the accuracy and the reliability of the radon kits. Accuracy measures how closely results matched those from the calibrated radon monitor we used as a benchmark. Those rated poor were off by almost 40 percent; ones rated fair, by less than 25 percent. Reliability indicates how similar the readings were for several samples exposed under identical conditions. Those rated fair varied by more than 10 percent and up to 15 percent; those rated very good, by less than 8 percent. Long-term kits were “alpha track” type, which uses strips of film or plastic on which alpha particles leave a mark, or track. Digital-readout meters use 120V power and begin showing monitoring results after two days. All short-term kits use activated charcoal. Price is approximate retail and includes lab fee.
Overall score is based on the accuracy and the reliability of the radon kits. Accuracy measures how closely results matched those from the calibrated radon monitor we used as a benchmark. Those rated poor were off by almost 40 percent; ones rated fair, by less than 25 percent. Reliability indicates how similar the readings were for several samples exposed under identical conditions. Those rated fair varied by more than 10 percent and up to 15 percent; those rated very good, by less than 8 percent. Long-term kits were “alpha track” type, which uses strips of film or plastic on which alpha particles leave a mark, or track. Digital-readout meters use 120V power and begin showing monitoring results after two days. All short-term kits use activated charcoal. Price is approximate retail and includes lab fee.
