Myth: One or two measurements give a full picture of radon levels in your water
The U.S. Geological Survey collected three radon-222 measurements from separate wells in Riverside County's aquifer N100BSNRGB. Sampled wells ranged from 610 to 1070 feet deep, reflecting a limited but meaningful snapshot of local groundwater conditions during summer 2013. While these three results all detected radon, the small sample size means the figures represent a regional indication rather than a continuous or comprehensive record. Individual household water could vary significantly from these values, depending on well depth and local geology.
Myth: Treatment decisions for radon in water are identical for households and commercial or industrial users
Unlike commercial or industrial settings, where water use volume and regulatory compliance create additional demands, most households focus on drinking water safety and everyday appliance protection. Commercial operators may need to consider cumulative exposure in processes or large volumes of water treated. Households generally address radon through targeted water treatment aimed at reducing radon in water used for drinking and cooking, with special attention to how radon affects indoor air quality.
Myth: Radon impacts all household water fixtures equally
Radon tends to affect fixtures where water is aerosolized or heated first, such as showers, faucets, and water heaters. These uses release radon gas into indoor air, presenting the primary exposure pathway in homes. Other appliances like dishwashers or washing machines receive water but do not significantly volatilize radon gas. Understanding which points in your household water system contribute most to radon exposure will inform which treatment approach to prioritize.
Myth: Radon levels in groundwater remain constant throughout the year
The USGS sampling in Riverside County occurred over a short time window from June to July 2013, recording radon concentrations from 264.0 to 1330.0 pCi/L with a median of 1010.0 pCi/L. This range reveals notable variation even within a few weeks and among different wells. Seasonal or multi-year variations can occur due to changes in groundwater flow, temperature, and geologic factors. Therefore, relying on a single test or historical data alone may not fully capture exposure potential year-round.
Myth: Secondary aesthetic standards for radon concentration in water establish health-based limits
Radon is a radioactive gas with health considerations primarily linked to inhalation of radon released into indoor air from water. However, aesthetic secondary standards, such as those guiding taste or staining, do not define health-based limits for radon. The three USGS samples in this area were all below federal thresholds for radon in water, indicating the data set does not show a regulatory violation or unsafe level. Distinguishing between aesthetic guidelines and health-based limits is crucial in evaluating the need and level of treatment.
What test should you order to settle your treatment class?
Because the USGS results reflect a limited regional sample, the only way to determine your household water's radon concentration is a certified laboratory test of your own well or water source. This test will show your radon level and help identify which class of treatment is appropriate. The Fleck Radon in Water Filter ships ready to configure for residential use and offers a documented solution to reducing radon in household water once you know your specific concentration. Order a certified radon test to get an accurate reading and determine your next steps with confidence.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2013-07-09. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.
On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of Radon-222 in the N100BSNRGB aquifer (Riverside County): 3 results from 3 wells, median 1010.0 pCi/L, range 264.0-1330.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold
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