Interpreting 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in Ouachita County Radon Sampling
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded radon-222 in samples from four wells in Ouachita County, Arkansas, part of the 124SPRT aquifer. Each of these five samples detected radon with values ranging from 40.0 to 108.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and a median concentration of 71.0 pCi/L. 'Detected' indicates the presence of radon above the laboratory's reporting threshold, but does not imply any regulatory breach or health risk on its own. The median provides a midpoint value across all samples, effectively representing a typical measurement in this data set. The range outlines the variability of radon concentrations found in these sampled wells, which were sampled at depths of 135 to 375 feet.
Reading These Radon Figures as a Homeowner
For a homeowner in Ouachita County, these findings give a snapshot of what radon levels look like in local groundwater from this aquifer but do not describe your well specifically. The median radon concentration of 71.0 pCi/L shows what half the samples measured above and half below. The range suggests that some wells have less radon and some more, within the limits recorded. Because these results come from only a few wells, your own well water could differ. The radon concentration in your household water can only be accurately known by conducting a test on your water supply.
Federal Radon Guidelines: What the Sampling Does and Does Not Indicate
The sampled concentrations recorded fall below any federal thresholds established for radon in water. This means the measured radon is within the range regulated by federal guidelines and does not itself indicate a violation or an unsafe water condition. However, radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can dissolve into groundwater and may pose concerns if present at higher concentrations or through prolonged exposure. Government sampling data represents area-wide conditions and do not substitute for testing your water directly to understand your household's specific situation.
Which Water Fixtures and Appliances Are Affected by Radon First
Radon that enters household water can be released into indoor air during water use activities that aerate the water, such as showering, cooking, and laundry. Fixtures like showers and faucets that generate aerosols or splashing release radon gas more readily. Consequently, these points in the home are where radon exposure from water often starts. Appliances that use or heat water can also contribute to radon entering indoor air, but tap-level exposure remains a practical focus for mitigation.
How Sampling Depth and Well Characteristics Influence Expected Radon Levels
The recorded samples were taken from wells between 135 and 375 feet deep, a factor that affects radon level expectations. Generally, groundwater from deeper sources in certain aquifers may carry higher radon concentrations due to longer contact with radium-bearing rock. Shallow wells or surface water sources often show different radon behavior. Understanding the depth and source type of your well helps in assessing where your water’s radon level may fall in relation to the regional data.
How the C-Series Radon in Water Filter Addresses Radon
The C-Series Radon in Water Filter is designed to reduce radon concentrations in residential water supplies effectively. It operates by processing water through specialized filtration media that captures radon before the water reaches household taps, reducing radon release in water use. This system ships ready to configure and can be an important part of managing radon exposure where testing confirms levels warrant treatment.
Final Step: Testing Your Household Water for Radon
To determine radon levels specific to your home's water, order a radon test for your water supply. A qualified laboratory can measure the radon concentration accurately. Obtaining this result is essential to decide if treatment is necessary and to understand the degree of radon exposure through your household water. A confirmed measurement below applicable action levels can provide peace of mind, while higher results indicate the need to consider filtration options like the C-Series Radon in Water Filter.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2014-07-24. 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 124SPRT aquifer (Ouachita County): 5 results from 4 wells, median 71.0 pCi/L, range 40.0-108.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold