If Plumbing Material or Age Shows Problems, Do Not Assume Radon Is the Cause
Issues with water quality related to plumbing can include metallic taste, staining, or corrosion. These often stem from the pipes themselves rather than the source water. Radon is a naturally occurring gas dissolved in groundwater and is unrelated to plumbing materials or their condition. Even older plumbing does not influence radon concentration in the water supply.
If You See Radon Values, Understand How They Compare to Federal Standards and What That Means
In Richmond County, samples taken from 10 wells in aquifer 211MDVL between 2013 and 2025 showed radon-222 concentrations ranging from 27.0 to 253.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), with a median of 201.0 pCi/L. None of these results exceeded any federal radon threshold. This means radon levels noted in the area are within regulatory limits, but a detection simply indicates measurement above the reporting limit, not a violation or unsafe condition.
If You Notice Aesthetic Issues, Remember That Secondary Standards Differ From Health-Based Limits
Radon itself is odorless and tasteless, so secondary or aesthetic standards typically do not apply. Some water constituents affect taste, staining, or corrosion, but radon is primarily a health consideration. Understanding this separation helps clarify that aesthetic water problems you may detect are unlikely linked to radon levels in your water.
If You Are Starting Troubleshooting, Begin With Simple Checks Before Testing Your Water
When suspecting radon-related water issues, first review your plumbing condition and any mechanical water treatment devices present. Next, observe any changes in your water's taste, odor, or appearance. Since radon is a gas that can off-gas when water is aerated, consider how you use water and whether you notice unusual symptoms inside your home. Ultimately, a laboratory test of your own water sample is the only way to know your well’s specific radon concentration.
If Your Well or Source Differs in Depth or Type, Know This Affects Expected Radon Levels
The U.S. Geological Survey’s local sampling was from wells ranging 200 to 455 feet deep. Radon levels may vary depending on well depth, aquifer characteristics, and the type of water source. Shallower wells or different geological formations could produce different radon levels. Your home's water may differ from area samples, so water testing targeted at your source is essential for accurate assessment.
For addressing radon in well water in Richmond County, the C-Series Radon in Water Filter ships ready to configure and provides a documented approach for reducing radon levels measured in the range shown. Testing your water first will guide whether the C-Series System is appropriate for your household’s needs.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2025-07-10. 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 211MDVL aquifer (Richmond County): 23 results from 10 wells, median 201.0 pCi/L, range 27.0-253.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold