First Alert Radon Gas Test Kit RD1 — Charcoal Short-Term Home Screening with Lab Analysis

The First Alert RD1 Radon Gas Test Kit is a ready-to-use, EPA-listed charcoal screening kit that collects an initial radon sample at home and includes lab analysis and a return mailer.

Radon is an invisible, naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through foundation gaps and low-level openings. The First Alert RD1 is designed for quick, straightforward screening of indoor radon levels: place the charcoal detector where you spend time at ground level, expose it for the prescribed period, and send it to the included EPA-listed lab for analysis. Results and recommended next steps are returned after the lab receives your sample.

How does the RD1 detect radon in my home?

The RD1 uses an activated charcoal canister that absorbs radon and its decay products over a short exposure window. After the exposure period you mail the sealed canister to the lab included in the kit; technicians analyze the sample and report a measured radon concentration.

• Charcoal canister captures radon gas during the exposure period.
• EPA-listed laboratory analysis included in the kit price (excludes NJ state fee).
• Lab processes samples and returns results within days of receipt.

How long does testing take and when will I get results?

Home exposure for the RD1 is short-term — typically two to four days — making it suitable for an initial screen. Once the lab receives your mailed sample, results are typically emailed within 72 hours, with full reporting and recommended next steps included.

• Recommended home exposure: 2–4 days for initial screening.
• Return mailer included for easy shipment to the lab.
• Results emailed within about 3 business days after lab receipt.

Where should I place the test canister for accurate screening?

Place the RD1 canister in the lowest livable area you use often, such as a finished basement or ground-floor living space. Avoid doors, windows, vents, and high humidity areas to ensure a representative sample of indoor air where people spend time.

• Set the canister at breathing height in the lowest-occupied level.
• Keep at least 20 inches from exterior walls, windows, and vents.
• Do not place near bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry areas with steam.

What does the kit include and what happens if results are elevated?

The RD1 kit ships with an activated charcoal test canister, a user manual with placement instructions, and a prepaid return mailer for an EPA-listed lab. If results indicate elevated radon, the report includes guidance and suggested next steps you can take for further testing or mitigation options.

• Included: charcoal canister, instructions, and prepaid return mailer.
• Lab fee for EPA-listed analysis is covered (except certain state exclusions).
• Report provides recommended follow-up actions when levels are above common guidelines.

Who is this for: The First Alert RD1 is intended for homeowners, renters, landlords, and facility managers who want a fast, easy initial check of indoor radon levels using an EPA-listed lab. It is ideal for quick screening before buying/selling property, seasonal checks, or as a first step if you suspect ground-level radon entry. This product is intended for use within the United States and is best used as an initial screening tool; follow-up testing or professional mitigation may be recommended based on results.