**Albuquerque Air: Radon Gas Cracking Summer Youth?**
By Franklin Everett ShawYou can’t see it, smell it, or taste it, but it could be lurking in your Albuquerque home, silently increasing your risk of lung cancer. We’re talking about radon, a radioactive gas that’s a serious concern in New Mexico, especially during the summer months. As Albuquerque parents, we want to protect our families, and that starts with understanding and addressing this invisible threat.
This isn’t just another scare tactic. New Mexico has some of the highest radon levels in the nation. The geology of the state, particularly the uranium deposits in the Grants Mineral Belt west of Albuquerque, contributes to elevated radon concentrations in the soil. This gas can seep into our homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings.
So, how do you protect your family? This guide will walk you through the process of testing your Albuquerque home for radon, understanding the results, and taking action if necessary. We’ll focus on the specific challenges and resources available right here in Albuquerque and New Mexico.
First, let’s understand why summer is a crucial time to test. During the summer, we tend to keep our homes closed up more often, running air conditioning to combat the Albuquerque heat. This reduces natural ventilation, trapping radon gas inside and potentially increasing its concentration. In winter, we might open windows less frequently for warmth, also increasing radon levels.
There are two main ways to test for radon: DIY kits and professional testing services. DIY kits are readily available at hardware stores like Lowe’s on Coors Boulevard or Home Depot on Eubank Boulevard, and even online retailers. These kits typically involve placing a detector in the lowest lived-in level of your home for a specified period (usually 2-7 days for short-term tests or 90 days for long-term tests).
Follow the instructions precisely. Common mistakes include placing the detector near drafts, windows, or exterior walls, which can skew the results. Also, ensure the kit is placed in a frequently used room, like a living room or bedroom, not a storage area. After the testing period, you’ll mail the detector to a lab for analysis.
Professional radon testing, on the other hand, involves hiring a certified radon measurement professional. You can find certified professionals through the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) website. A professional will use specialized equipment to conduct the test, often providing results more quickly and with greater accuracy. They can also advise on optimal placement and testing duration.
The cost of a DIY kit typically ranges from $25 to $50, while professional testing can cost between $150 and $300. While DIY kits are more affordable, professional testing offers the advantage of expertise and potentially more reliable results, especially if you’re concerned about proper placement or have a complex home layout.
Once you receive your test results, you’ll need to interpret them based on EPA guidelines. Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). The EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon levels if they are at or above 4 pCi/L. Even levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration of mitigation.
Don’t panic if your results are high. Mitigation systems are effective at reducing radon levels. These systems typically involve installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation and exhaust it outside. The cost of radon mitigation in Albuquerque can range from $800 to $2500, depending on the complexity of the system and the construction of your home.
Here’s where local resources come in. The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) offers valuable information about radon testing and mitigation. Their website (env.nm.gov) provides a list of certified radon professionals, educational materials, and information about radon-resistant new construction.
Furthermore, financial assistance programs may be available to help Albuquerque homeowners with the cost of radon mitigation. Check with the City of Albuquerque’s Housing and Neighborhood Development Department and the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (NMMFA) for potential grant or loan programs. These programs can help make mitigation more affordable for low-to-moderate income families.
One common pitfall is delaying action after receiving high radon test results. Radon exposure is a long-term health risk, so it’s crucial to address the problem promptly. Don’t wait; contact a certified mitigation professional to discuss your options and get a quote.
Another challenge is ensuring the mitigation system is properly installed and maintained. A poorly installed system may not effectively reduce radon levels, and a neglected system can become less efficient over time. Always hire a certified mitigation professional and schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure the system is functioning correctly.
Consider this real-world scenario: The Sanchez family in the South Valley neighborhood of Albuquerque tested their home and found radon levels of 6 pCi/L. They were initially overwhelmed by the cost of mitigation. However, after researching local resources, they discovered a grant program through the City of Albuquerque that covered a significant portion of the mitigation expenses. They were able to install a radon mitigation system and significantly reduce the radon levels in their home, protecting their family’s health.
Testing for radon is a simple yet crucial step in protecting your family’s health in Albuquerque. By understanding the risks, utilizing available resources, and taking prompt action, you can create a safer and healthier home environment. Don’t let this invisible threat linger; take control and test your home for radon today. Remember, early detection and mitigation are key to preventing long-term health problems.