January is Radon Awareness Month: Is Your Treasure Valley Home on the "Hot Spot" List?
As homeowners, we take pride in our homes. We weather-strip the windows, clear the gutters, and keep the furnace humming to stay cozy during the Idaho winter. But while we are busy sealing the cold out, many of us are inadvertently sealing a dangerous, invisible guest in: Radon gas.
At Johnny on the Spot Environmental, we believe safety starts with information. That’s why this January in honor of National Radon Action Month we are offering Free Professional Radon Testing for our neighbors across Boise, Meridian, Eagle, and the rest of the Treasure Valley.
The "Silent Killer" in Idaho’s Soil
Radon isn’t something you can see, smell, or taste. It is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that rises from the decay of uranium in our soil. Because of our local geology, the Treasure Valley is a "hot spot." In fact, the EPA estimates that nearly 1 in 15 homes nationwide has elevated radon levels, but in Idaho, that number is significantly higher with nearly 40% of tested homes exceeding the action level.
Why is Boise a Radon "Hot Spot"?
You may have heard that certain areas in the Treasure Valley are higher risk than others. This isn't just a rumor; it’s rooted in the very ground our city is built on.
The Foothills & North End: These areas often see higher levels due to their proximity to granitic bedrock. Granite is naturally rich in uranium, which decays into radon gas. As that gas rises through the porous soil and rock of the foothills, it finds its way into basements and crawl spaces.
Volcanic History: Much of the Treasure Valley sits on layers of volcanic basalt and ash. These geological formations are known for having higher-than-average concentrations of uranium compared to other regions.
Permeable Soils: The gravelly, permeable soils found across Ada and Canyon counties act like a highway, allowing radon gas to travel easily from deep underground right into your home's foundation.
For a deeper dive into which specific areas are most affected, you can check out our detailed blog on Radon in Idaho, which includes a breakdown of risk levels by county. For example, Ada County has an average level of 6.5 pCi/L, well above the EPA's recommended action limit.
The Risks: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, topped only by smoking. When radon gas enters your home through cracks in the foundation or gaps in the crawl space, it becomes trapped and concentrated. Over time, breathing in these radioactive particles can cause serious cellular damage to your lungs.
Why We Are Testing for Free This Month
In the past, many homeowners relied on DIY charcoal test kits. While better than nothing, these can be finicky and prone to user error. So we are sending out the pros. Our team uses professional-grade continuous monitors that track fluctuations in your air hourly, providing a much more accurate "snapshot" than a one-time charcoal test.
What you get:
- A professional technician to set up the device.
- A comprehensive, digital report of your home's radon levels.
- Peace of mind knowing exactly where you stand with zero pressure to buy.
Understanding the "Action Level"
The EPA has set a specific "Action Level" for radon: 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter).
- Below 4.0 pCi/L: Your home is within a generally acceptable range, though the EPA suggests considering mitigation if you are between 2.0 and 4.0.
- 4.0 pCi/L or Higher: This is the threshold where the EPA strongly recommends installing a radon mitigation system to protect your health.
What Happens if My Levels Are High?
Don't panic. If your report shows elevated levels, the fix is straightforward and permanent. Radon mitigation involves installing a system (often called sub-slab depressurization) that uses a specialized fan to pull the gas from beneath your home and vent it safely above your roofline. At Johnny on the Spot, we are certified experts in these systems. We don’t use fear-mongering tactics; we just provide the technical solutions to keep your air clean and your property value intact.
Claim Your Free Professional Test
January is the best time to test because our homes are closed up tight for winter, which gives us the most accurate "worst-case scenario" reading.
Give us a call at (208) 344-2265 or Contact us online. Let’s make sure the only thing your family is breathing this winter is fresh air.
