Radon Risks in Arizona Homes: Why You Should Test Even in Dry Climates

When we consider hazards in Arizona homes, we think of scorching weather, dust storms, or even scorpions. However, one of the underlying, unseen dangers that we never pay much attention to is radon. Radon inspection is something no homeowner should overlook.

Yes, of course, Arizona does not have as bad a reputation as some other states, such as Pennsylvania or Colorado. Nevertheless, it does not mean that there is no danger to houses in that area. 

In fact, many houses in Arizona have been found to contain high levels of radon, yet the majority of people living there are unaware. 

Let’s get into it.

What is Radon and Why You Should Care 

Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced naturally when uranium decays in the soil, rock, and water. It enters the house through holes, cracks in the foundation, or even via contaminated well water.

It is colorless, tasteless, and has no smell; this is why it cannot be identified without testing. It is, nevertheless, deadly.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. It also leads to the deaths of approximately 21,000 individuals.

Radon in Arizona: The Hidden Monster

Most homeowners in Arizona believe that they are safe from radon exposure because their state is full of desert. The truth? Radon’s predilection in certain regions of Arizona is medium or high.

Approximately 1 in every 15 homes in Arizona, or 6.7%, contains radon levels of 4.0 pCi/L or above, the EPA-prescribed action level. That is far more than in many humid places.

Arizona Geological Survey (University of Arizona) reports the median radon level among over 4,000 Arizona homes was 1.6 pCi/L, similar to the U.S. median, and confirms that elevated levels do occur across areas including Prescott, Cave Creek, Verde Valley, and Flagstaff

Who Should Get a Radon Inspection

It’s time to take a test if your answer to one of the following questions is yes:

• Are you planning to sell or buy a house in Arizona?
• Do you live in a basement or ground-level home?
• Was your home built before 1990?
• Has your home never had a radon test?

Important: It is necessary to retest because, over time, the radon levels may alter. This is subject to changes in weather, construction work going on around your home, or the installation of new HVAC systems.

What Happens During a Radon Inspection

A professional radon inspection typically takes 48 to 96 hours. A small electronic monitor is installed by an inspector in the lowest habitable part of your home, typically the basement or first floor.

Such monitors can be used to determine the variability in the radon over time. As the test is finished, the inspector will give you a report of your average radon concentration.

If your levels are 4.0 pCi/L or above, the EPA recommends taking corrective measures.

Radon Mitigation: What to do if High Levels are Found

There is no need to panic; the radon mitigation system is highly effective. It involves fixing a pipe-and-fan system that exhausts radon gas from under your home to the outside.

Their prices range between $700 to $4,000, depending on the house’s size and layout. The National Radon Program Services declares that such systems are capable of reducing the level of radon indoors to up to 99%.

Radon Testing in Arizona: DIY vs. Professional Inspection

DIY radon test kits are available online and in stores, and its price can be as low as $12. This type of kit is an excellent starting point, although it is not always entirely accurate.

A professional radon inspection provides much more reliable results. Continuous radon monitors (CRMs) are used by professionals, who record data at one-hour intervals and strictly follow test procedures. In order to get reliable reports, particularly during a home purchase or sale, you can engage the services of a certified inspector.

Final Thoughts

Radon does not care if your home is new, the type of soil it’s constructed on, or even how healthy and good you feel inside it. One of the most avoidable causes of lung cancer can be safeguarded by a simple test that would help to save your family.

It is not advisable to leave the health of your family to chance. Advantage Inspection Service offers accurate, certified, and professional radon testing in Arizona. It does not matter whether you are selling, buying, or haven’t tested in years; we will take care of it.

Contact Advantage Inspection Service today to schedule your radon inspection.