UV or Ultra violet light is one of the wavelengths emitted naturally by the sun. Though these waves are invisible to the human eye, they are all around us outside. As the sun emits these waves, they radiate pollutants in the air. UV-C wavelength destroys viruses, molds, bacteria, mildew, yeast, and algae by breaking through the microbe and causing its death. Do you realise now how good your sun dried laundry smells?
Thus UV light is a natural air purifier, capable of killing yeasts, molds, and viruses. And the best part is UV light is found in sun and hence it is free for all to use!
Ah… but most people live indoors – not out in the sun and hence they cannot take advantage of this free natural source! Therefore, a way must be found to use this naturally occurring air purifier in the home. This is where UV air purifiers come in to play. These air purifiers can help in detoxify the air in your home, though it is important to note that they won’t remove particles from the air.
Taking Advantage of UV Light
Ultra-violet air purifiers are usually installed in metal air duct systems, as exposure to eyes is very harmful. The faster and more often the air system is circulating, the more effective the UV air purifier will be. There are plug-in air purifier models available that make use of multiple filter systems (HEPA and carbon) in addition to a UV light stage.
Multiple filter + UV stage air purifier models start at about $600. Air duct installed systems, usually offering UV only or a UV / HEPA combination, start around $300 with an average model costing $700 plus installation. You may think it is steep but UV air purifiers have no odor and are silent unlike most other purification systems. There is still some noise inherent in running forced air through a home or office but that’s all. Generally light bulbs usually need to be replaced every 15 months if the UV air purifier is ran 24 hours a day.
Drawbacks to UV Light
There are some situations that would render a UV air purifier virtually useless. If the air doesn’t circulate in a room or building, or if the air circulates very slowly, a UV light purifier won’t be able to do its job. This is because UV light can only kill contaminates that are very, very close to the light bulb. A UV bulb is only 60 percent efficient at .4 inches from the bulb and only 20 percent effective at 2 inches from the bulb.
Besides, do you know that United States Government buildings, including schools and hospitals, are required to have UV air purifiers installed in HVAC systems? This clearly demonstrate that UV light air purifiers are effective in removing and destroying the pollutants in the air.
Thus if you can afford it, you should invest in one to give yourself and everyone in your home air that is safe and clean to breathe.