Before testing for radon in residential water, what should be tested first?

Testing the air for radon before measuring radon levels in residential water is a crucial first step. This is because radon is a radioactive gas that originates from the decay of uranium found in soil and rock. It can readily enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations, and can accumulate in indoor air.

By testing the air first, you establish a baseline understanding of radon levels within the residence. If elevated radon levels are detected in the air, this indicates a potential source of radon within or near the home and may suggest that the water supply could also be radon-contaminated, especially if it comes from a well or other groundwater source.

If air radon levels are significantly high, mitigating measures can be taken to reduce them, which might also lower the risk of radon entering the water supply via the same geological sources. Moreover, since the inhalation of radon gas poses a more immediate health risk compared to ingestion via water, air testing is generally prioritized to address the most pressing health concerns.

On the other hand, testing water without first assessing air levels might overlook critical information about the residence’s overall radon exposure risk. Thus, initiating with air testing ensures a more comprehensive understanding of radon presence