Nashua Radon HelpRadon FAQ for southern New Hampshire
Short answers with links to the official sources.
What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. You can’t see, smell or taste it, and it can build up indoors. The EPA links it to about 21,000 U.S. lung cancer deaths a year. Source: EPA: Health Risk of Radon
What level is “too high”?
The EPA recommends fixing your home at 4 pCi/L or higher and considering a fix between 2 and 4 pCi/L. Source: EPA: A Citizen's Guide to Radon (PDF)
Is radon really a problem in Nashua and Manchester?
NH DHHS estimates New Hampshire’s average indoor radon is about four times the national average, largely because of granite bedrock. An American Lung Association analysis estimated Hillsborough County’s mean at 5.3 pCi/L. Individual homes vary widely, so test yours. Source: NH DHHS: Tracking Radon, American Lung Association: Radon Testing Disparity Report for NH (PDF)
Can I test my own home?
Yes. NH residents can order a free short-term kit from the state radon program. For a home sale, a certified measurement professional is recommended. Source: NH Radon Program free test kit order page, NH DHHS: Testing for Radon
Does the radon contractor need a certification?
Since January 1, 2015, radon-in-air mitigation designers and installers in New Hampshire must be nationally certified, according to NHDES. You can check names on the NRPP directory. Source: NHDES fact sheet: Radon in Your Home's Water Supply (PDF), NRPP: National Radon Proficiency Program (find certified pros)
How much does mitigation cost?
It depends on your foundation and radon level. The EPA says most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs. Get a written quote for your home. Source: EPA: A Citizen's Guide to Radon (PDF)
How long do radon systems last?
NH DHHS says the fan is the main part that can fail and typically lasts 10–15 years. Source: NH DHHS: Fixing Radon (Mitigation)
I’m on a private well. Do I need to test my water?
Yes, testing is recommended. NHDES recommends water treatment at or above 10,000 pCi/L, and says treatment may be advisable between 2,000 and 10,000 pCi/L if indoor air is 4 pCi/L or higher. Test water at least twice, about a month apart. Source: NHDES fact sheet: Radon in Your Home's Water Supply (PDF)
Are you a radon company?
No. Nashua Radon Help is a referral service. We pass your request to an independent local professional, who may pay us for the referral. We don’t perform testing or mitigation and don’t guarantee any provider’s work.
Is there any cost to me?
No. Requesting a quote through this site is free and you are never obligated to hire anyone.
Want a quote from a local radon pro?
Tell us about your home and your test result. We’ll pass your request to an independent radon professional who serves your town. Free, no obligation.
We are a referral service, not a radon contractor. How this works.