Institutions have used ultraviolet (UV) light to purify hospital rooms surfaces for years. Now, homeowners can enjoy this high-tech means of purifying the air in their homes. But how do ultraviolet purifiers work? And are they really effective?

How Ultraviolet Air Purifiers Kill Germs
 

Ultraviolet air purifiers use UV-C light particles. These vibrate at an incredible speed and carry a great deal of energy.

These high-energy particles can penetrate microscopic pathogens, damaging their DNA. This naturally causes these microorganisms to perish.

Are Ultraviolet Air Purifiers Effective?

UV-C has reduced the rate of common pathogens in controlled studies up to 99 percent. These include staph (Staphylococcus aureus) and bacterial pneumonia (Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae).

The Environmental Protection Agency reports that ultraviolet air purifiers work well in residential HVAC systems. A home air purifier removes bacteria and mold and improves air quality. However, the system also has to effectively remove humidity from the air to work well.

Can UV air purifiers kill Coronavirus?


According to the EPA, air purifiers can reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 in the home. But they find that a portable unit isn’t sufficient enough to be effective.

An air purifier installed in your HVAC is much more effective, especially when combined with a HEPA filter.

How HVAC UV Light Purifiers Are Used

Whole-system ultraviolet light systems are also called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) systems. Ultraviolet light degrades any organic material. This includes the germs and mold in your ductwork and HVAC components.

UVGI systems use low-pressure mercury vapor lamps. These irradiate the air passing through the system and sanitize the surfaces inside. Their effectiveness can depend on type of microorganisms and the speed of the airflow.

Surface purification, where interior coils are exposed to the UV-C light, is more effective. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends using UV-C on coil surfaces. This technique reduces fungal growth and reduces mold and mildew.

Both methods rely on good air filtration upstream and downstream of the air purifier. Upstream filtration protects the device from damage. Downstream filtration removes both live and dead contaminants from the air.

How to Add Ultraviolet Air Purifiers to Your HVAC System

It’s best to have your ultraviolet air purifier installed by a professional. These devices are much more effective when installed in the right place for your system. Also, proper system balance is critical to get the highest kill rate for pathogens.

Your technician will determine the best place to install your UV-C air purifier. They will also balance the system for optimal airflow and condensate drainage. They will make sure your system is configured for the most effective purification of your indoor air.

Protect the health of your family for years to come. Make an appointment today with the experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Pleasantville to discuss adding air purification to your system.