Radon levels Columbus Ohio
Radon Levels in Franklin County Ohio
Radon levels in Franklin County Ohio run high compared with much of the country. Here is what the EPA, the state and local studies say.
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What the sources say
| Source | Finding |
|---|---|
| EPA radon zone map | Ohio's counties are mapped in zones, with Franklin and Delaware in Zone 1 (EPA map). |
| Ohio Department of Health | Over 400,000 results recorded since 2001, and about 1 in 3 Ohio homes has an elevated level (ODH fact sheet) |
| 1992 Franklin County paper | 63% to 73% of screening results above 4 pCi/L, and 23% to 27% above 10 pCi/L (study abstract) |
| Columbus Dispatch test, 68 homes | Radon near or above dangerous levels in rich areas, public housing and rural areas (Dispatch report) |
The 1992 paper gives its numbers in Bq/m3. We converted 148 to about 4 pCi/L and 370 to about 10 pCi/L.
Why levels vary house to house
Zone maps show a county average, not your living room. The EPA says all homes should be tested regardless of zone (EPA map). Soil, slab cracks, sump pits, the season and how tight your home is all matter. See radon testing in Columbus OH.
Questions before you decide?
Local notes
Columbus is flat from glacier action (Wikipedia: Columbus), and winter closes up homes. Read about local areas on our locations page or go back to the home page.
Questions people ask us
Is Franklin County a high radon area?
The EPA map and local studies point that way (study abstract). Your own test decides.
What does Zone 1 mean?
Zone 1 predicts an average indoor level above 4 pCi/L (EPA map).
Do rich neighborhoods have less radon?
Not necessarily. The Dispatch found elevated results in wealthy areas too (Dispatch report).
How common is elevated radon in Ohio?
About 1 in 3 homes, according to a state health fact sheet (ODH fact sheet).
When is the best time to test?
Winter often shows higher readings. Test any time, then follow up.
Should I retest?
Yes. The EPA suggests testing at least every two years after a fix (EPA).
Find out your own radon number
Back to the Columbus Radon Mitigation home page or browse our services.