7 Radon Myths Debunked

Did you know that exposure to radon gas causes over 21,000 deaths annually? The only thing more dangerous is smoking!

Radon is a radioactive gas that humans can’t smell, taste or see. For this reason, it is essential that your home is regularly tested. Just because you aren’t aware of its presence doesn’t mean you are in the clear. In the following article, we will take a look at the most common myths about this dangerous domestic problem.

Here is what the EPA has to say about the common radon myths and what the real threat it poses to your life and home.

MYTH 1: Scientists are not sure that radon really is a problem.

While no one is quite sure how many deaths are caused by radon exposure each year, the Center of Disease Control, American Medical Association and American Lung Association all say the exact same thing: Radon causes many preventable deaths from lung cancer each year. For smokers, the risk is much higher.

MYTH 2: Radon testing is difficult, time-consuming and expensive

It is actually very easy to perform these tests. This can either be done by a qualified radon testing company or by the homeowners themselves. Either way the test is easy to perform and not very costly or time-consuming.

MYTH 3: Homes with radon problems can’t be fixed.

Actually, there are many situations to this potentially serious problem. Problems with radon can be addressed just like any other home repair. But you will probably want to get the advice from professional radon mitigation contractors before you begin.

MYTH 4: Only Certain Kinds of Homes are at Risk for Radon Contamination

Radon issues can occur in all types of homes. New homes, old homes, insulated homes and drafty homes. The main conditions that determine a threat to the home include construction materials as well as the local geology, along with a few others.

MYTH 5: Radon is only a problem in some parts of the country

While radon issue is more serious in some areas, high levels of radon have been found in all parts of the country. The only way to determine the threat level in your home is with proper testing.

MYTH 6: The Neighbor’s test can be an indication of your property’s threat levels.

Radon levels vary greatly from location to location. The only way to rule out this problem in your home is through proper testing.

MYTH 7: Everyone should test their water for radon

It is true that radon can get into the home through the water supply. But it will be far more important to check the levels of radon in the air. If your water supply comes from groundwater sources, it will be important to call the water company supplying your home’s water.

What Teton Radon Services can do for you

Now that you have been educated by these 7 radon myths debunked, it is time to take action. At Teton Radon Services we have over 15 years of experience providing superior radon testing services here in Idaho Falls. We have the skills to identify the issue and perform the proper actions to reduce the threat. Testing is quick and easy and we offer both Charcoal and Continuous Radon Monitors (CRM) to protect your home and loved ones from this potential problem.

If you are a homeowner in Wyoming, Montana or Central and Eastern/Southeastern Idaho, call (208) 520-8048 to arrange a consultation with our experienced radon professionals.

Radon Levels – What Do They Mean?

Radon gas is a noble gas that is odorless and invisible to the naked eye. When present in open places, it is not a risk. However, if there is an accumulation in homes or schools, it poses a huge health risk. Prolonged exposure to the gas can cause lung cancer. It has no smell and is tasteless so testing by professionals is the only way to detect it in the home. The process will ensure that if the gas is in your home it is mitigated to prevent health risks for you and your family.

How Does Radon Gas Enter A Home Or Building?

Radon is formed from the decay of Uranium, and this is an element found in almost all soils. When the soil underneath the foundation decays and produces the gas, it passes through the cracks in the foundation or other parts of the home and slowly accumulates inside the building. Note that radon gas can accumulate in any home whether old or new. Even a home without a basement can have dangerous levels of radon.

 
The Different Levels Of Radon And What They Mean For Your Home’s Safety

The State Health Department recommends mitigation in homes for radon that has tested levels of over 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air). It is almost impossible to have zero levels of radon in the home because of the soil underneath the house and the fact that it is a naturally occurring gas.

Testing Radon Levels

Radon gas level is about 0.135-0.405 pCi/L globally when tested outdoors. For every 2.7 pCi/L, there is an increase in the chances of acquiring lung cancer. It is important to monitor the levels of radon in any home, but more so in homes that have previously had high radon levels.

The lowest level of radon in the home that would not pose a great risk of lung cancer is 100 Bq/m3, or 2.7 pCi/L according to the World Health Organization. When this limit is surpassed, mitigation and remediation are necessary. The US EPA recommends that the lowest levels be 4 pCi/L.

High Radon Levels

If the level of radon in your home is measured and is at 4 pCi/L for a month or more than four weeks, professional radon mitigation and remediation company should be contacted to take measures and bring the levels down. If you have levels of 2.7 pCi/L, it means that your home is safe. If the levels are between 2.7 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L and remain this way for about three or four months, you should call a professional for mitigation purposes.

Whether you are moving into a new home or have been living in your home for a while, you should get the place tested for radon gas and be certain that you do not have dangerous levels of radon gas.


Contact Teton Radon Services in Idaho Falls, ID, to carry out the tests for you. We have plenty of experience with over 15 years of carrying out radon tests and mitigation. We have both Charcoal testing and CRM.

Call us today at (208)520-8048 to get our expert radon testing and mitigation services.