When renting or buying a home, one thing that most homeowners consider is the safety of the family. Usually, they think of the neighborhood as well as the security features of the house. As homeowners, you also need to consider the indoors because certain things may pose dangers to your family’s health, including radon. If you are planning to relocate, you may consider the American states with the lowest radon levels.
Understanding Radon Levels
Before discovering which states have low radon levels, it is essential to understand what radon level is, how it is measured, and what is considered safe. First and foremost, have a background of what radon is.
As most of you already know, radon is a naturally occurring gas that can cause cancer. It is detected through the process of radon testing. Short-term tests are conducted to identify the existence of this gas. Meanwhile, long-term tests are recommended for continuous monitoring of radon levels.
Radon in houses varies because this gas fluctuates. Meaning, even if it is high today, it can be low tomorrow or in other months. That’s why long-term radon testing is necessary because it can help you assess whether you need to install radon mitigation right away.
What is Radon Level Considered Safe?
If you wonder what radon level is considered safe, the best answer is to have no radon. Though it may seem impossible to have a radon-resistant home, there are different ways to lower the level little by little. All you need to do is conduct the right tests and hire a licensed radon contractor to install the proper mitigation system. For homes that cannot achieve zero levels, acceptable radon levels pose lower risks of lung cancer.
Did you know that outside your home, the radon levels in the air could be as high as 0.75 pCi/L? It exceeds the national average of outside radon levels, which is 0.4 pCi/L. If you are exposed to this, especially for a long time, your risk of lung cancer increases. If your home exceeds that national average, it’s time to call a radon contractor from your state.
States With Lowest Radon Levels
Are you planning to move to a new house? If you are still searching for a place to go, here are some states to consider:
- Hawaii (0)
- Louisiana (1.1)
- Mississippi (1.2)
- Florida(1.8)
- Arizona (1.9)
- Texas (2.1)
- California (2.3)
- Georgia (2.3)
- Delaware (2.4)
- South Carolina (2.4)
Of all the American states, Hawaii topped the list in the states with the lowest radon levels. It is followed by Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and Arizona, which go the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th rankings.
Some homeowners overlook the significance of ensuring a radon-resistant home. Radon may not sound like a serious problem, but the daggers it could bring can threaten human lives. So if you want your family to be safe, make sure to consider radon mitigation to achieve a radon-resistant home.