Facts & Myths

radon facts and myths
Myth #1: Scientists are not really sure radon is a problem.

Fact:  Although some scientist dispute the exact number of radon related deaths, all the major health organizations (the Centers for Disease Control, the American Lung Association and the American Medical Association) agree with estimates that radon is responsible for thousands of preventable deaths a year. This is especially true among people who smoke, since the risk to smokers is much greater than to people who don’t smoke.

Myth #2: Radon testing devices are hard to find and not reliable.

Fact:  Reliable radon testing is available from qualified radon companies and testers.  Active radon devices can constantly gather and periodically record radon levels to uncover any unusual fluctuations in the radon level during the test.  Reliable testing devices are also available by mail-order or phone and can be purchased in most hardware stores and other retail outlets.

Myth #3: Radon testing is time-consuming & difficult.

Fact:  Radon testing is fairly easy.  You can test your home yourself or hire a qualified radon testing company.  Either approach takes a relatively small amount of effort and time.

Myth #4: Homes that have radon problems can’t be fixed.

Fact:  There are solutions for homes that have radon problems.  Thousands of home owners have lowered their radon levels.  Radon levels can be lowered for between $800 and $2500.  Give us a call today to get your home tested!

Myth #5: Radon only affects certain types of homes.

Fact:  Radon can be a problem in any type of home, including new homes, old homes, insulated homes, drafty homes, homes without basements and homes with basements.  Local geology, construction materials and how the home was built are among some of the factors that can affect levels of radon in homes.

Myth #6: Radon is only a problem is certain parts of the country.

Fact:  High radon levels have been found all over the country, in every state.  Radon problems do vary from area to area, but the only way to really know a home’s radon level is to test.

Myth #7: Your neighbor’s radon testing result is a good indicator of whether your home has a radon problem.

Fact:  It’s not.  Levels of radon vary from home to home.  The only way to know for sure if your home has a radon problem is to test.

Myth #8: Everyone should test their water for radon.

Fact:  While radon does get into some homes through the water, it is important to test the air in your home for radon.  If your water comes from a public water system that uses ground water, you should call your water supplier.  If high radon levels are found and the home has a private well, you need to call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 for more information on testing your water.

Myth #9: It’s hard to sell a home where radon problems have been detected.

Fact:  If you fix the radon problems, the sale of your home will not be blocked and the added protection will be a good selling point.