---
title: "Radon Testing vs Radon Mitigation: What's the Difference?"
description: "Testing measures radon; mitigation reduces it. When you need each, short-term vs long-term tests, and how to choose a certified pro in PA."
canonical: https://radonroster.com/testing-vs-mitigation/
---

# Radon testing vs mitigation

## Testing measures radon

Short-term tests run about 2 to 7 days; long-term tests run more than 90 days and better reflect the year-round average. Real estate deals usually use short-term tests. PA DEP's [Radon in the Home](https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/radiation-protection/radon-division/radon-in-the-home) page says that if a result is above 4 pCi/L you should consider a second test. If the result is 4-8 pCi/L, you can do a long-term (365-day) test or another short-term test, and if it is still 4 pCi/L or higher, take corrective action.

## Mitigation reduces radon

Mitigation means installing a radon reduction system, usually active soil depressurization: a pipe and fan pull soil gas from under the foundation and vent it above the roof. A follow-up test should confirm the system works. See EPA's [Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction](https://www.epa.gov/radon/consumers-guide-radon-reduction-how-fix-your-home).

## Who can do the work in PA

Testers, mitigators and labs serving the public must hold PA DEP certification ([25 Pa. Code Ch. 240](https://files.dep.state.pa.us/RadiationProtection/BureauOfRadiationProtection/BRPPortalFiles/Chapter_240_2015-04-23.pdf)). They must show a current DEP photo ID on request. Every listing on this site comes from DEP's certified lists.

[Find certified pros by county](https://radonroster.com/pa/counties/)