Radon in Groundwater Arrives Naturally in Anne Arundel County's Aquifers
Radon-222 originates from the natural radioactive decay of uranium present in rocks and soil beneath Anne Arundel County. This gas can dissolve into groundwater as it moves through the aquifers supplying residential wells in the region, including the local 217PPSCU aquifer. The presence of radon in water samples collected locally reflects this geologic process rather than contamination from human sources.
Well Depth Influences Expected Radon Levels in Water Samples
The US Geological Survey collected samples between depths of 200 and 439 feet from three distinct wells within Anne Arundel County's 217PPSCU aquifer. These depths represent typical residential well depths in parts of the county but do not cover all possible well scenarios. Radon concentrations can vary with depth, so shallower or deeper wells may have radon levels differing from these samples.
Certified Laboratory Testing Reports Radon in Picocuries per Liter
Laboratories measure radon-222 in water using standardized methods, reporting results in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The USGS area results show a median of 57.0 pCi/L across three wells, ranging from 29.0 to 124.0 pCi/L. While all were detected, none exceeded applicable federal actions levels for radon in water. These results provide an area profile but cannot define water quality for any single well without direct testing.
Record Your Well Depth, Construction Details, and Testing Results Before Considering Treatment
Before deciding on reducing radon in your household water supply, note the exact depth of your well, its construction type, and certified radon test results from your water. This information is essential for understanding your specific radon levels and discussing appropriate treatment options. Relying solely on area data risks mischaracterizing your water's condition.
The Plumbing System Material and Age Do Not Affect Radon Concentrations
Radon is a dissolved gas originating underground and is not introduced or altered by household plumbing materials or pipe age. Although plumbing can influence other water qualities, radon levels are determined primarily by the source water chemistry. Treatment decisions should focus on the water source radon levels measured by laboratory testing.
Area Radon Data Does Not Establish Your Household Water's Quality or Safety
The USGS sampling in Anne Arundel County provides valuable insight into regional groundwater radon concentrations. However, it does not determine the radon content in your own well or tap water. Only a laboratory test of your water can establish your actual radon level. Additionally, detection of radon, even near the higher end of the range found in the area, is not a violation or a direct safety hazard by itself.
If testing confirms radon concerns, the Pentair Radon in Water Filter ships ready to configure and is designed specifically to reduce radon dissolved in household water supplies effectively. This system offers a documented approach to addressing radon after you have verified your specific water conditions.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2016-11-30. 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 217PPSCU aquifer (Anne Arundel County): 3 results from 3 wells, median 57.0 pCi/L, range 29.0-124.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold
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