Radon in Harris County Water: Facts About Aquifer 121EVGL Levels and Treatment Choices
Overview of Harris County’s Aquifer 121EVGL and Water Supply
Water in Harris County often comes from deep wells drawing from aquifer 121EVGL, ranging from about 1305 to 1641 feet deep. This groundwater source delivers water into household plumbing, carrying any naturally occurring substances dissolved underground. Radon-222 is one such substance detected in these waters by government environmental monitoring.
Understanding Certified Lab Test Results for Radon
Test Reports Reflect Radon Concentrations in Picocuries per Liter (pCi/L)
Certified laboratory tests measure Radon-222 activity in water samples, reported as pCi/L. In Harris County’s aquifer 121EVGL, US Geological Survey data from 23 samples collected between 2013 and 2015 show detected Radon levels ranging from 640 to 2510 pCi/L, with a median value of 950 pCi/L. Each number reflects measurements from specific wells, not a household’s own water.
Detection Indicates Presence, Not Health Risk or Violation
All samples in this dataset detected Radon, but no measurement exceeded federal thresholds. A Radon result above the reporting limit means the substance was found, not that the water is unsafe or noncompliant. Actual safety assessment requires individual well testing.
Distinctions Between Public System Records and Private Well Testing
Public Records Represent Aggregate Sampling from Multiple Wells
Government data aggregates multiple well samples to characterize the aquifer regionally. Records for public water systems typically reflect composite water quality over distribution networks, which may differ from single-well private supplies.
Private Well Testing Provides Specific Household Water Quality
Only a direct test of your home’s well water can confirm your Radon level, as local geology and well depth affect concentrations. Public reports help estimate regional conditions but cannot replace individual testing.
Consequences of Untreated Radon in Household Water over Time
Radon Can Emanate From Water into Indoor Air
When Radon is present in water used for showering, cooking, or laundry, it can release into the air, increasing indoor Radon levels. Prolonged exposure to elevated indoor Radon is associated with health risks, which underscores the rationale for addressing Radon at its source in water.
Leaving Radon Untreated May Increase Indoor Exposure
Without treatment, Radon from water may contribute to cumulative indoor concentrations. The extent depends on water use habits and home ventilation, so outcomes vary across households.
Sampling Scope and Statistical Context of Harris County Data
Data Includes 23 Samples from 12 Wells Over Two Years
The US Geological Survey results for Harris County’s aquifer 121EVGL are based on sampling from a dozen separate wells across approximately two years. This provides a snapshot of Radon activity within a regional scale rather than individual well trends.
Limited Sample Size Implies Variation for Individual Wells
While median and range offer useful regional guidance, individual wells may show different Radon levels due to localized geology. Homeowners should rely on their own water testing for precise evaluation.
Effect of Treatment With the C-Series Radon in Water Filter
Treated Water at the Tap Shows Reduced Radon Concentrations
Using a C-Series Radon in Water Filter configured to meet your household water demand effectively reduces Radon levels provided by your water supply. This helps lower potential Radon release into indoor air from water use.
The System Ships Ready to Configure Based on Your Measured Needs
The C-Series system is designed for straightforward setup to match household water usage. Your own water testing results and consumption data guide selection and configuration, enhancing treatment effectiveness.
Understanding regional Radon data and the limitations of public records guides homeowners considering treatment options. The C-Series Radon in Water Filter offers a documented approach to lowering Radon exposure from household water when selected based on your specific demand and test results.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2015-07-20. 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 121EVGL aquifer (Harris County): 23 results from 12 wells, median 950.0 pCi/L, range 640.0-2510.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold

