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What is the Average Amount of Radon in a Home?

The average amount of radon in a home varies geographically, but nationally, the average indoor radon level is estimated to be about 1.3 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). While this is below the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) action level of 4 pCi/L, any radon exposure carries some risk, and even lower levels should be mitigated when feasible.

Understanding Radon: A Hidden Threat

Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Because it’s a gas, radon can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, construction joints, gaps around pipes, and other openings. While radon exists virtually everywhere, the concentration levels indoors can vary dramatically from house to house, even next door to each other. This variability makes testing the only reliable way to determine the radon level in any given home. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels is a significant health concern, primarily due to its association with lung cancer.

The EPA Action Level and What it Means

The EPA has established an action level of 4 pCi/L for radon in homes. This means that if testing reveals a radon level at or above this threshold, the EPA recommends taking action to mitigate the problem. While 4 pCi/L is the action level, the EPA also states that there is no known safe level of radon. Even levels below 4 pCi/L carry some risk, and the EPA encourages homeowners to consider mitigation even at lower levels, especially if mitigation can be achieved cost-effectively.

Why Radon Levels Vary So Much

Several factors contribute to the wide range of radon levels found in homes across the country:

Geology: The concentration of uranium in the soil and rock surrounding a home is the primary determinant of radon levels. Areas with higher uranium deposits naturally tend to have higher radon levels.
Soil Permeability: The ease with which radon gas can travel through the soil also plays a crucial role. Porous soils allow radon to move more freely and enter homes more readily.
Construction Methods: How a home is constructed, including the presence and quality of foundation seals and vapor barriers, can significantly impact radon entry.
Ventilation: The amount of ventilation in a home can influence radon concentrations. Well-ventilated homes tend to have lower radon levels than those that are poorly ventilated.
Climate: Climate conditions, such as freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall, can affect soil permeability and radon entry into homes.

Testing for Radon: Your First Line of Defense

The only way to know the radon level in your home is to test for it. There are two primary types of radon tests:

Short-Term Tests: These tests are typically conducted over a period of 2 to 7 days and provide a quick indication of radon levels. Short-term tests are useful for initial screening and can help determine if further testing is necessary.
Long-Term Tests: These tests are conducted over a period of 90 days or more and provide a more accurate representation of average radon levels over an extended period. Long-term tests are recommended for confirming the results of short-term tests and for making informed decisions about mitigation.

You can purchase radon test kits at most hardware stores, online, or through your state radon program. You can also hire a qualified radon testing professional to conduct the test for you. Choosing a certified professional ensures that the testing is performed correctly and the results are reliable.

Radon Mitigation: Taking Action to Protect Your Health

If testing reveals radon levels at or above the EPA’s action level of 4 pCi/L, radon mitigation is recommended. The most common radon mitigation technique is soil suction, which involves installing a system of pipes and a fan to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation and vent it safely outside. Other mitigation techniques include sealing cracks and openings in the foundation, improving ventilation, and installing a radon sump in the basement. The cost of radon mitigation can vary depending on the size and design of the home, but it is a worthwhile investment in protecting your family’s health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Radon

H3 FAQ 1: Is Radon Only a Problem in Certain States?

No. Radon is a potential problem in every state in the United States. While certain regions may have higher average radon levels due to geological factors, radon can be found in homes regardless of location.

H3 FAQ 2: How Does Radon Cause Lung Cancer?

Radon decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe radon-contaminated air. As these particles decay further, they release energy that can damage lung tissue and increase the risk of developing lung cancer over time.

H3 FAQ 3: Can Radon Enter Homes Through Water?

Yes, radon can enter homes through well water, particularly private wells. However, radon in water is generally a less significant source of indoor radon than radon from the soil. If you have a private well, you should test your water for radon.

H3 FAQ 4: How Accurate are Do-It-Yourself Radon Test Kits?

Do-it-yourself radon test kits can be accurate when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. However, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully to ensure reliable results. Using a certified professional can provide added assurance.

H3 FAQ 5: What Should I Do If My Radon Test Results are Slightly Below 4 pCi/L?

Even if your radon test results are below 4 pCi/L, you should still consider mitigation, especially if cost-effective options are available. The EPA states there is no safe level of radon. Continuous exposure, even to these lower levels, is not risk-free.

H3 FAQ 6: Does Radon Mitigation Eliminate Radon Completely?

Radon mitigation systems are designed to significantly reduce radon levels, but they may not eliminate radon completely. A well-designed and properly installed system should lower radon levels below the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, ideally to below 2 pCi/L. Post-mitigation testing is crucial to confirm the system’s effectiveness.

H3 FAQ 7: How Much Does Radon Mitigation Typically Cost?

The cost of radon mitigation can vary depending on several factors, including the size and layout of the home, the type of foundation, and the complexity of the mitigation system. On average, mitigation can cost between $800 and $2,500.

H3 FAQ 8: Are New Homes Radon-Proof?

While many new homes are built with radon-resistant construction features, this doesn’t guarantee that radon levels will be low. Radon-resistant construction aims to reduce radon entry, but testing is still recommended in all new homes to confirm effectiveness.

H3 FAQ 9: Can Radon Affect My Pets?

Yes, radon can pose a health risk to pets, particularly those that spend a significant amount of time indoors. Pets can develop lung cancer from radon exposure, similar to humans.

H3 FAQ 10: How Often Should I Test My Home for Radon?

The EPA recommends testing your home for radon every two years. You should also test your home after any renovations or significant structural changes that could affect radon entry.

H3 FAQ 11: Can I Sell My Home If It Has High Radon Levels?

Yes, you can sell your home if it has high radon levels. However, you are typically required to disclose the radon levels to potential buyers. Many homeowners choose to mitigate the radon before selling to make their home more attractive to buyers.

H3 FAQ 12: Where Can I Find a Certified Radon Mitigation Professional?

You can find a certified radon mitigation professional by contacting your state radon program or by searching online databases of certified professionals. Look for certifications from organizations such as the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST). Ensure the professional is licensed and insured.