Average Radon Level In New Hampshire: 5.6 pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in New Hampshire with radon levels at or exceeding 4.0 pCi/L should undergo mitigation. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) sets a lower threshold, recommending action for radon concentrations of 2.7 pCi/L or above.

EPA's Action Level: 4.0 pCi/L
WHO's Action Level: 2.7 pCi/L
Average Level In New Hampshire: 5.6 pCi/L

Living or working in areas with elevated radon levels can pose significant health risks. The only reliable method to ascertain the radon concentration in your specific home or building is through radon testing. This is a crucial step in ensuring your environment is safe and adheres to recommended health standards.

Understanding Radon in New Hampshire

Radon in New Hampshire is a significant concern due to the state’s geology, which contributes to higher than average radon levels. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. The Granite State’s unique geological composition, including its granite bedrock, can lead to elevated radon levels in New Hampshire homes and buildings, posing potential health risks to residents.

The Health Risks For Radon In New Hampshire

Exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues. Some of the risks associated with radon in New Hampshire include:

Long-term exposure to radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause in smokers.
Children are more susceptible to the harmful effects of radon due to their faster breathing rates and rapidly dividing cells.
Even low levels of radon can contribute to the development of lung cancer over time.

Radon Levels in New Hampshire

New Hampshire, located in the northeastern United States, is known for its high levels of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing.

Radon Levels in New Hampshire: An Overview

New Hampshire has one of the highest average radon levels in the country. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the action level for radon at 4 pCi/L, but many homes in New Hampshire have radon levels above this.
According to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, nearly 30% of the homes tested in the state have radon levels higher than the EPA’s action level.
The state’s geology contributes to these high radon levels. Granite, which is abundant in New Hampshire, can contain small amounts of uranium that can produce radon.

Testing for Radon in New Hampshire

Given the high radon levels in New Hampshire, it is recommended that all homeowners test their homes for radon. Testing is the only way to know if your home has high radon levels. Test kits are available from many sources, including the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.

Radon Mitigation in New Hampshire

If your home tests high for radon, there are mitigation strategies available. These can include installing a radon reduction system, which can reduce radon levels by up to 99%. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services provides resources and guidance for homeowners looking to mitigate radon in their homes.

Conclusion

Radon is a serious health risk in New Hampshire, but with proper testing and mitigation, homeowners can protect themselves and their families. It’s important to be aware of the risks and take the necessary steps to ensure a safe and healthy home environment.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In New Hampshire

Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in New Hampshire:

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