What Is a Water Radon Test and Do NH Homebuyers Need One?

🏡 What Is a Water Radon Test and Do NH Homebuyers Need One?

In many parts of Central NH — including Plymouth, Campton, Rumney, Thornton, Ashland, and surrounding towns — homes rely on private wells.

While radon air tests are common, many buyers don’t realize that radon can also be present in well water.

Here’s what NH homebuyers need to know.

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What Is a Water Radon Test?

A water radon test measures the amount of radon gas dissolved in well water.

This is important because radon in water can:

✔ Escape into the air when showering

✔ Enter the home through faucets

✔ Contribute to elevated indoor radon levels

The test is typically done by taking a sealed water sample and sending it to a certified lab.

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Do NH Buyers Need a Water Radon Test?

A water radon test is strongly recommended if:

✔ The home uses a private well

✔ The indoor air radon test is elevated

✔ The property is in a high-granite area (common in Central NH)

✔ The home is older with untreated well systems

Many Plymouth-area inspectors automatically recommend this test for homes on wells.

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What Are Safe Radon Levels in Water?

The EPA suggests:

✔ Below 4,000 pCi/L — usually manageable

✔ Above 10,000 pCi/L — mitigation recommended

✔ Very high levels — can significantly raise indoor radon readings

Mitigation systems for radon in water are different from air systems.

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How Is Water Radon Mitigated?

Two common systems are used:

Aeration systems — most effective, remove up to 99%

Granular activated carbon filters (GAC) — lower cost, good for moderate levels

Buyers should review well system age, water pressure, and existing filtration before choosing a solution.

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Q&A

Q: Is water radon testing required in NH?

A: Not legally — but it’s strongly recommended for any home with a private well.

Q: Does radon in water affect taste or color?

A: No. Radon is odorless and invisible, which is why testing is important.

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Keywords

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Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com