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Radon testing in South Dakota
A test takes a few days and tells you whether your home needs a mitigation system.
The only way to know your home's radon level is to test it. Zone maps and county averages are predictions, and South Dakota's DANR says they're no substitute for testing a specific building.
Types of tests
| Test | How long | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term kit | 2 to 90 days (often 2 to 7) | A quick first look |
| Long-term kit | More than 90 days | Your average across seasons |
| Continuous monitor | Usually 48 hours or more | Real estate deadlines, hour-by-hour readings |
Getting an accurate result
- Test on the lowest level you use regularly, such as a finished basement.
- Keep exterior doors and windows closed for 12 hours before and during the test, as the state recommends.
- Keep the test away from drafts, sump pits, kitchens and bathrooms.
- Use a test that meets EPA proficiency standards.
Free and low-cost options
South Dakota DANR offers a limited number of free test kits to residents each year through its South Dakota free radon test kit request form. Passive kits are also sold at hardware stores and online.
For a home sale, a professional with a continuous monitor is usually the better choice. Results are faster, and both buyer and seller can trust them.
Already have a number? Check what it means with the radon reading tool on our homepage.
Sources: South Dakota DANR, Radon; EPA, Health Risk of Radon.