New Mexico Radon Information

What Is Radon Gas? Is It Dangerous?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is colorless, odorless, and invisible, which means it cannot be detected without proper testing. Radon exists outdoors in trace amounts and disperses quickly, so it is generally not a concern in open air. Problems occur when radon enters enclosed spaces such as homes, schools, and workplaces, where it can become trapped after entering through foundation cracks, construction joints, plumbing penetrations, crawl spaces, and other openings in contact with the ground. Once inside, radon can build up to elevated levels, especially in lower living areas. Indoor radon can be effectively controlled using proven, cost-effective mitigation methods.

Why Radon Is a Health Concern
Breathing radon over time significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, behind smoking. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, an estimated 21,000 people die each year from radon-related lung cancer. There is no safe level of radon exposure, and the risk increases with both the concentration of radon and the length of time a person is exposed.

Radon Testing and EPA Action Levels
Testing is the only way to determine radon levels in a home or building, as radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. Testing can be performed by a qualified professional or with a do-it-yourself test kit. The EPA recommends taking action when radon levels are at or above 4.0 picocuries per liter (148 Bq/m³). Most radon issues are corrected using mitigation systems such as sub-slab or crawl-space ventilation, which safely redirect radon gas away from the structure.

New Mexico Radon Levels
New Mexico has higher-than-average radon potential in many areas due to local geology and soil conditions. Based on user-submitted data, the state currently reflects an average radon level of approximately 7.71 pCi/L, though radon levels can vary widely from home to home and change over time.

EPA Radon Zones in New Mexico
New Mexico has 31 counties, with eight classified by the EPA as Zone 1, indicating the highest potential for radon levels above 4.0 pCi/L. At least seventeen counties fall into Zone 2, which represents moderate radon potential. Regardless of which county a home is located in, the EPA recommends that every home be tested for radon every two years. No level of radon is considered safe, and testing is the only way to know if a home is affected.

Seasonal Radon Changes
Radon levels can fluctuate throughout the year due to temperature differences, soil moisture, and ventilation patterns. In New Mexico, these seasonal changes can be significant, which is why testing during both hot and cold seasons is recommended to better understand potential exposure levels.

New Mexico Radon Testing
American Quality Home Inspections offers professional radon testing for homes and businesses, including 48-hour and 96-hour testing options. Our testing includes continuous live monitoring, fast turnaround times, and clear, easy-to-understand reporting. Call 505-991-1700 to learn more about radon testing in your area or to schedule a test.

Key Differences Between a 48-Hour and a 96-Hour Radon Test

48-Hour Radon Test
A 48-hour test is the minimum testing period recognized by the EPA and is commonly used during real estate transactions when time is limited. It provides a snapshot of radon levels over a short window and is often sufficient for decision-making before closing. Because radon levels can fluctuate due to weather, pressure changes, and ventilation, results from a 48-hour test may be more influenced by short-term conditions.

96-Hour Radon Test
A 96-hour test runs for twice as long and captures a broader range of conditions inside the home. This longer test period helps smooth out daily fluctuations and often provides a more stable, representative average radon level. A 96-hour test is ideal when scheduling allows, when a homeowner plans to remain in the home, or when previous results were close to the EPA action level.

What Clients Should Know

• Both tests use the same professional continuous radon monitoring equipment
• Both meet EPA guidelines when performed under proper closed-house conditions
• A longer test generally provides more confidence in the results
• Seasonal and weather changes can influence short-term radon readings
• Elevated results from either test indicate the need for further evaluation or mitigation

Which Test Should You Choose?

A 48-hour test is typically sufficient for most real estate transactions and tight timelines. A 96-hour test is recommended when time allows, when a more conservative and representative result is desired, or when long-term occupancy is planned.

If you’re unsure which option is best for your situation, American Quality Home Inspections can help you choose the appropriate testing duration based on the home, timing, and your goals.

Radon and Real Estate in New Mexico
While radon testing is not required by New Mexico law, both the state and the EPA strongly recommend testing before completing a real estate transaction. Testing prior to purchase allows buyers to make informed decisions and address concerns before closing. If elevated radon levels are discovered after purchase, there is no reason to panic. Radon mitigation systems are effective, affordable, and can typically be installed in a relatively short period of time.

Radon Mitigation
When radon levels are at or above 4.0 pCi/L, the EPA strongly urges homeowners and property owners to install a radon mitigation system to reduce exposure and health risks. Although American Quality Home Inspections does not install mitigation systems, we can help connect clients with qualified radon mitigation professionals in their area.

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New Mexico Radon Map

Zone 1 (1): Potential for radon levels above 4 pCi/L according to EPA
Zone 2 (2): Potential for radon levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L according to the EPA
Zone 3 (3): Lowest EPA level with expected radon levels at or below 2 pCi/L
Disclaimer: It is strongly recommended that all households, schools and office spaces test radon levels individually. The EPA Radon Zone data is not an indicator of individual test results, but a guideline for strategic planning. Toxic radon levels can be found in all counties, regardless of their zone rating. While we make efforts to keep this information up to date, it is derived from third­party sources which may not be accurate or reflect the most current statistics.