Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights: What’s Right for My Needs?
Indoor air quality is something to keep in mind for every household. If you lack the right air quality products, indoor air is frequently two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. But with a large number of air cleaning methods on the market, how do you learn which one is correct for your home and family? Here’s a comparison of two quality methods—air purifiers and UV lights.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers are used to increase indoor air quality by filtering dust, tobacco smoke, and pollen from the air. Some also absorb odor-causing molecules for a fresher scent. Air purifiers come in a portable form, which means they can only be used in one room at a time.
There are many types of air purifiers, including mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, ozone generators, electronic air purifiers, and ionization systems. They all perform somewhat differently, but the goal is the same—to trap airborne substances. However, once allergens drift down to the floor, purifiers can no longer trap and remove them.
One underlying side-effect with several air purifiers is that they generate ozone. Whether in its pure form or mixed with other chemicals, ozone can be hazardous to health. Breathing ozone affects lung function and increases the risk of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain and lung inflammation. This is an ironic side effect, considering that a homeowner would only use an air purifier to improve indoor air quality, not weaken it! Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) instructions, homeowners are advised to take advantage of proven ways of reducing indoor air pollution. These methods include phasing out or controlling pollutant sources, adding outdoor air ventilation and using any proven methods of air cleaning that doesn’t increase or generate ozone.
How Do UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet-C (UVC) rays are the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum. This type of light is considered germicidal because it inactivates most viruses and eliminates bacteria and molds. UV lamps have been used as a sterilization mechanism in hospitals and food production for decades. When placed in your HVAC system, UV lights can drastically boost indoor air quality.
The process is very simple: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your ductwork, where it runs continuously. Each time the air conditioner or furnace turns on, indoor air containing particulates blows past the light. Airborne microorganisms are inactivated within 10 seconds of contact, rendering them unable to reproduce until they die soon after UVC exposure. It is encouraged that UV lights be utilized in addition to both high efficiency filtration and ventilation systems. All three work with one another to provide the best, most pure indoor air for your home.
Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Best?
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning recommends installing UV lights for maximum indoor air quality. This solution can offer relief to those suffering from asthma and allergies, especially in warm, humid settings where microorganisms prosper. Unlike air purifiers, UV lights can:
- Improve the air in your entire home
- Eliminate the bulk of viruses, bacteria and mold
- Enhance your HVAC system’s lifespan
- Minimize the possibility of generating ozone
If you believe a UV germicidal light is beneficial for your home, talk with one of our indoor air quality specialists today. We can suggest the best combination of equipment based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. Don’t forget, you should still have an HVAC air filtration system to trap dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights don’t affect inanimate allergens. To learn more about available air cleaning methods, or to schedule a free home health consultation, call us at 954-736-4314 today!
