WiseEyes Home and Property Inspections Inc.

Radon in Water

Radon gas is normally found in all well water. Bedrock (drilled) typically have much higher levels than dug or point Wells. The most significant concern is the inhalation of radon gas from the air. Radon gas typically enters the air by two common pathways:

• Migration (up from the soil) into the house air through cracks and/or other openings in the foundation
• Release of dissolved radon gas into the air from water usage in the home

In New Hampshire and Vermont, the migration of radon up from the soil contributes the largest percent of radon found in the average home. Radon from a ground water supply, particularly a bedrock (Cartesian, drilled) well, contributes the next largest percentage of radon in that home.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has set an advisory "action level" of 4 pc/L. for radon gas in indoor air. While not a mandated health standard, this level is a guideline for people to use in assessing the seriousness of their exposure to airborne radon. Studies show that high levels of radon gas in the air increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

At present there is no federal or state regulated standard for radon in drinking water. In 1991, the New Hampshire Department of environmental services (DES) and the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) jointly recommended a maximum level for radon gas in public drinking water at 2000 pc/L. Although this recommendation was never acted upon by any regulatory agency, is commonly referred to in New Hampshire. The Environmental Protection Agency is currently proposing a limit of 4000 pc/L. Massachusetts recommends 10,000, Vermont 5000 and main 4000 pc/L.