Water Testing NY: Radon in Water Often Goes Untested in New York Homes
When it comes to water testing in New York (NY), many homeowners and buyers focus on common concerns like bacteria, nitrates, and heavy metals. However, one critical health risk often gets overlooked: radon in water. While it’s standard to test for radon in the air during a home inspection, most people—and even many real estate professionals—fail to realize that radon can also be present in your NY water supply.
If you rely on a private well in New York, it’s especially important to consider testing your water for radon. Unlike air testing, radon in water testing is not included in standard water quality tests and must be specifically requested.
Why You Need to Test for Radon in Water in NY
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It’s invisible, tasteless, and odorless—and while most people are aware of its presence in the air, radon can also dissolve into groundwater and be released into the air when you use water for showering, washing dishes, or doing laundry.
In New York, many areas have elevated natural uranium levels in the bedrock, increasing the potential for radon contamination in private wells. Unfortunately, the EPA does not currently enforce a federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) for radon in water, leaving states and homeowners to take initiative.
Testing is the only way to know if radon is present in your NY water—and to determine whether mitigation is necessary.
The Cost of Ignoring Radon in Water
Failing to include radon in your water testing in NY can lead to unpleasant surprises—both financially and in terms of health risk. While radon in the air can typically be mitigated for around $800–$1,500, radon in water treatment systems are significantly more expensive.
In New York, the cost of a radon water mitigation system generally ranges from $2,000 to over $8,000, depending on the radon levels and the treatment method required.
Types of Radon Water Treatment Systems in NY
If your water test in New York reveals high levels of radon, there are two primary treatment options:
1. Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) System
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Ideal for radon levels between 5,000 and 25,000 pCi/L
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Uses special charcoal filters to trap radon from the water
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Requires periodic filter changes per the manufacturer’s instructions
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Lower initial cost than aeration, but involves ongoing maintenance
2. Aeration System
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Best for radon levels above 10,000 pCi/L, especially over 25,000
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Bubbles air through the water to release radon gas, which is then safely vented outside
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More expensive to install but generally more effective for very high radon concentrations
Both systems are effective, but selecting the right one depends on your water test results and radon levels.
Take Charge of Your Water Quality in New York
Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, and radon exposure through water—especially when ignored—can contribute to long-term health risks. If you own a home with a private well in NY, don’t assume your water is safe just because it looks and tastes clean.
When requesting water testing in New York, make sure to ask specifically for radon in water analysis. It’s not typically included in standard tests and is often missed unless you advocate for it.
Schedule a Radon in Water Test for Your NY Home Today
Whether you’re buying a home in New York, have lived with well water for years, or simply want peace of mind, comprehensive water testing in NY should include a check for radon in water. Certified laboratories across the state offer this specialized service, giving you the data you need to protect your home and health.