Radon

RADON

What is Radon in Water?

Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that is found in soil, rock, and water. It is produced by the breakdown of uranium, a radioactive element that is present in small amounts in soil and rock. Radon is invisible, tasteless, and odorless, and it can be found in both indoor and outdoor air. Radon can enter water supplies through a variety of sources, including:

• Well water: Radon can enter well water from the surrounding soil and rock.
• Surface water: Radon can be found in surface water sources, such as lakes and rivers, that come into contact with soil and rock that contains uranium.
• Groundwater: Radon can enter groundwater from the surrounding soil and rock.

Symptoms of Radon in Water

There are no physical symptoms of radon in water that humans can detect. Radon is an invisible, tasteless, and odorless gas, so it is not possible to detect its presence by sight, taste, or smell. However, long-term exposure to radon in water can pose serious health risks. Ingesting or inhaling radon can increase the risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. The specific health risks will depend on the level of radon in the water and the duration of exposure.

It is important to regularly test water for radon to ensure that it is safe to drink or use. If radon is detected in water, it is important to take steps to reduce or eliminate the presence of radon in the water to reduce the risk of health effects.

Treatment of Radon in Water

Open aeration is a common method used to remove radon from water. It works by exposing the water to the air, which allows the radon gas to escape from the water.

To treat radon in water using open aeration, the water is typically pumped into a tank or other container where it is exposed to the air. The water is agitated or mixed to increase the surface area of the water and allow the radon gas to escape more easily. The radon gas is then released into the air and the remaining water is collected and tested to ensure that the radon levels are within acceptable limits. Open aeration is a simple and effective method for removing radon from water, but it may not be able to completely remove all radon from the water. In cases where the radon levels are particularly high or the water is difficult to treat, additional treatment methods may be needed to fully remove the radon from the water.

A Penguin Water Systems certified water specialist can assist you in determining the most effective method for removing radon from your water. These specialists have the knowledge and expertise to assess the specific characteristics of your water and to recommend the most appropriate treatment method based on your unique needs. They can help you identify the best method for addressing radon in your water and ensure that your water is safe and of high quality. By working with a certified water specialist, you can be confident that you are making an informed decision about the treatment of your water and that you are taking the necessary steps to address any water quality issues you may have.