Why There Is No “Safe” Level of Radon in Your Home

Most homeowners think they only need to worry about radon if a test result comes back above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L. While that number is important, it often creates a misunderstanding. The truth is that there is no known completely safe level of radon exposure. Even lower levels carry some risk, which is why health experts recommend keeping radon concentrations as low as reasonably possible.
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Because radon is invisible, odorless, and naturally occurring, it can quietly build up inside homes without any obvious warning signs. The only way to know whether your family is being exposed is through professional radon testing.

Understanding Radon and Why It Matters

Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It enters homes through foundation cracks, sump pits, crawl spaces, utility penetrations, and other small openings. Once inside, it can become trapped, especially during colder months when homes remain tightly sealed.
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Long-term exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among non-smokers. Unlike many household hazards, radon doesn't cause immediate symptoms, making regular testing even more important.

What Does the EPA Action Level Mean?

The EPA recommends taking action if indoor radon levels reach 4.0 pCi/L or higher. However, this should not be interpreted as meaning anything below 4.0 pCi/L is completely safe.
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In fact, the EPA also encourages homeowners to consider reducing radon levels that fall between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L because health risks increase with greater exposure over time. The action level simply reflects the point where mitigation becomes strongly recommended—not where risk suddenly begins.
Think of it this way: every reduction in radon exposure lowers your lifetime risk.

Every Home Is Different

One of the biggest myths about radon is that only older homes or homes with basements are affected. In reality, any home can have elevated radon levels regardless of:

• Age
• Size
• Foundation type
• Construction quality
• Neighborhood

Two neighboring homes can produce completely different radon test results because the gas depends on local soil conditions, foundation openings, and airflow within the house. That's why every home should be tested rather than assuming it's safe based on nearby properties.

Nebraska Homes Face Higher Risk

Homeowners in Omaha should pay particular attention to radon because Nebraska consistently ranks among the states with the highest average radon levels. Many homes throughout the area test above the EPA action level due to naturally occurring geological conditions.
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Even if your home has never experienced any other indoor air quality issues, radon could still be present. Since you cannot see or smell it, testing remains the only reliable way to know your home's actual exposure level.
Related Article: What Season Does Radon Risk Increase Most in Omaha?

Testing Is the First Step

Fortunately, testing for radon is simple and affordable. A professional radon test provides accurate measurements of your home's indoor radon concentration and helps determine whether mitigation is needed.
Experts also recommend testing:

• Before buying or selling a home
• After major renovations
• After finishing a basement
• Following foundation repairs
• Every few years, even if previous results were low

Radon levels can change over time as soil conditions, weather patterns, and the home's structure evolve.

Mitigation Can Greatly Reduce Radon Levels

If elevated radon is found, the good news is that it can usually be corrected with a professionally installed mitigation system. These systems safely vent radon from beneath the home before it enters living spaces and are highly effective at significantly reducing indoor concentrations.
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Many homeowners experience peace of mind knowing their family's long-term exposure has been dramatically reduced after mitigation.

Protect Your Family Before Radon Becomes a Problem

Because there is no known completely safe level of radon exposure, waiting until levels become extremely high isn't the best approach. Testing early allows you to understand your home's air quality and make informed decisions before long-term exposure becomes a concern.
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At Omaha Radon Pros, we provide professional radon testing and mitigation services designed specifically for Nebraska homes. Our experienced team uses reliable testing methods and proven mitigation systems to help homeowners reduce radon levels and create a healthier indoor environment. Whether you're purchasing a new home, haven't tested in years, or recently received elevated results, we're here to help you protect what matters most.