What is Radon?
What is Radon Gas?
Radon is an invisible, colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that seeps into homes from the ground. It is the #1 environmental cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
Once inhaled, radon decay particles lodge deep in the lungs, releasing radiation that slowly damages cells and increases the risk of lung cancer. Without early detection and mitigation, this invisible threat can put your family’s health in serious danger.
- Classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization.
- Causes over 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S. (EPA).
- Smokers face an even higher risk when exposed to radon.
- Produces alpha radiation during decay, which damages lung tissue DNA.
- Found in homes of all ages and types, whether new, old, with or without basements.
- No warning signs — only testing can confirm exposure.
- Early detection through testing is the only way to reduce long-term health risks.
- Its decay chain (Radon-222 → Polonium-218 → Lead-214 → Bismuth-214 → Lead-210) releases alpha, beta, and gamma radiation, with alpha particles being the most harmful to lungs.
EPA and WHO Guidelines on Radon Levels
Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) in the U.S. or Becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³) internationally.
- EPA Action Level: 4 pCi/L (148 Bq/m³). Homes at or above this level should be mitigated.
- WHO Guideline: 2.7 pCi/L (100 Bq/m³). Lower levels are considered safer but still carry some risk.
Radon Level
Comparable Risk
Health Concern
2 pCi/L
~4 cigarettes/day
Some cancer risk
4 pCi/L
~8 cigarettes/day
EPA action level
10+ pCi/L
1 pack/day
Very high risk
20+ pCi/L
2 packs/day
Severe hazard
2 pCi/L
4 pCi/L
10+ pCi/L
20+ pCi/L
~4 cigarettes/day
~8 cigarettes/day
1 pack/day
2 packs/day
Some cancer risk
EPA action level
Very high risk
Severe hazard
How Radon Gets Into Homes
Radon moves from the soil into buildings through pressure differences and openings in foundations. Common entry points include
Soil Gas Under Foundation
The leading source of radon for most homes. Gas seeps upward through the soil beneath slabs, basements, or crawl spaces, entering living areas and accumulating indoors without visible warning signs.
Cracks and Floor Gaps
Openings in concrete, construction joints, or spaces around service pipes allow radon to enter freely. Sealing reduces entry but cannot fully stop infiltration, so professional mitigation is often necessary.
Sump Pits and Crawl Spaces
Exposed pits, drains, and unsealed crawl spaces can pull radon inside more quickly. Without proper sealing or venting systems, these areas act as easy pathways for radon intrusion.
Waterborne Radon Sources
Radon dissolved in private well water may release into indoor air during household use. While generally a smaller risk than soil gas, it can add measurable levels to indoor exposure.
Health Effects of Radon Exposure
Radon is a radioactive gas that can build up indoors without any visible signs. Long-term exposure increases the risk of serious health problems, even at relatively low levels.
Lung Cancer Risk
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., linked to over 21,000 deaths each year. Even non-smokers face a significant threat, making regular testing and awareness critical for protection.
Greater Risk for Smokers
People who smoke and live in radon-contaminated homes face much higher cancer risks. The combination of tobacco smoke and radon exposure multiplies the danger, making mitigation especially urgent for households with smokers.
No Safe Threshold
No level of radon exposure is considered completely safe. While lower levels reduce the chance of illness, the EPA and WHO stress the importance of testing and mitigation in all homes to minimize health risks.
Children and Elderly
Kids and seniors are more vulnerable due to weaker immune systems and longer indoor hours. Their developing or aging lungs make them more susceptible to damage, raising the importance of early testing and prevention.
Hazardous Effects on Pets
Pets breathe faster and stay closer to the ground, where radon concentrations are highest. Prolonged exposure can harm their lungs, increase cancer risks, and cause breathing problems, making radon mitigation crucial for animal safety.
Chronic Respiratory Issues
For individuals with asthma, bronchitis, or other lung conditions, radon exposure can worsen symptoms and reduce lung function. Prolonged contact increases respiratory distress, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring and effective mitigation systems.
Protect Your Family from Hidden Radon Risks Today
FAQs
Have Questions? Find your Answers
Radon is a radioactive gas formed by the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It rises through the ground and enters buildings through gaps and openings.
Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the first among non-smokers. Prolonged exposure to even moderate levels significantly increases cancer risk.
Through foundation cracks, gaps around pipes and wiring, sump pump openings, and crawl spaces. Radon concentration is highest near the ground level.
Children breathe faster, absorb more radon, and their developing lungs are more vulnerable to damage.
Pets stay indoors, closer to the ground, inhaling higher radon levels that can cause cancer.
No. Radon is completely odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Detection is only possible through scientific testing.
