What is the typical ratio of Radon transported from well water into indoor air?

The typical ratio of radon transported from well water into indoor air is generally around 10,000:1 pCi/L. This high ratio illustrates the significant difference in concentration between radon that may be dissolved in groundwater and what may be found in indoor air after the radon is released from the water.

When radon is present in well water, it can be released into the air in various ways, such as during showers, washing dishes, or other activities that involve using the water. The proportion at which radon translates from water to air is influenced by several factors, including the solubility of radon in water, the rate of water usage, and the method of water aeration.

In practical measurements, it has been shown that for every one picocurie per liter (pCi/L) of radon in water, approximately 10,000 pCi/L of radon can be found in the indoor air, primarily because the process allows for a considerable amount of radon to escape the water into the gas phase. This understanding is essential for evaluating potential radon exposure in homes that utilize well water, as it underscores the importance of both water testing and air testing in radon mitigation strategies.