Radon In Water

Radon enters water through the aquifer and is predominately a problem in well water.

The radon in your well is primarily influenced by the radium content in the aquifer material. Some municipalities get water from deep wells and may have radon in the water.

Radon transfer from water to air occurs due to:

• Radon water concentration
• Surface area
• Amount of water used
• Temperature of water

a.       The equilibrium varies between water and air depending on the temperature.

b.      68 degree water can hold ¼ as much radon as air.

• Size of the room
• Ventilation rate

The dishwasher produces 98%, washing machine on hot cycle 98%, shower 71%. As the temperature varies the radon exposure will vary.

What are the health risks from radon in water?

• Inhalation (lung cancer)
• Ingestion (cancer of digestive tract and damage to DNA are a couple of risks)

The health risk due to ingestion is lower than breathing the air.

Normally, 10,000 pCi/l in water is equivalent to 1pCi/l in air. If your water comes from a well you should consider having it tested.

Radon in water can be mitigated using aeration or granular activated carbon.

If you have concerns about radon in your water give us a call at 303 870-9902.