Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights: What’s Best for My Needs?
Indoor air quality is something to keep in mind for every household. Without the right air quality products, indoor air is frequently two to five times less healthy compared to outdoor air. But with different air cleaning methods to choose from, how do you determine which one is ideal for your home and family? Here’s a comparison of two popular options—air purifiers and UV lights.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers are built to increase indoor air quality by trapping dust, tobacco smoke, and pollen from the air. Some also absorb odor-causing molecules for a fresher scent. Air purifiers can be found in a portable form, which means they can only be used in one room at a time.
There are several types of air purifiers, such as mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, ozone generators, electronic air purifiers, and ionization systems. They all work a little differently, but the goal is the same—to capture airborne pollutants. However, once allergens settle to the floor, purifiers can no longer catch and remove them.
One underlying problem with many air purifiers is that they generate ozone. Whether in its raw form or combined with other chemicals, ozone can be hazardous to health. Being exposed to ozone affects lung function and escalates the risk of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain and lung inflammation. This is an ironic side effect, since a homeowner would only purchase an air purifier to improve indoor air quality, not hurt it! Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) instructions, homeowners are reminded to utilize proven methods of managing indoor air pollution. These methods include eliminating or controlling pollutant sources, increasing outdoor air ventilation and using any proven methods of air cleaning that doesn’t add or create 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 kills bacteria and molds. UV lamps have been used as a sterilization system in hospitals and food production for decades. When added to your HVAC system, UV lights can dramatically enhance indoor air quality.
The process is very uncomplicated: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your air ducts, where it runs constantly. Any time the air conditioner or furnace activates, indoor air containing particulates blows near the light. Airborne microorganisms are inactivated in under 10 seconds of contact, rendering them unable to reproduce until they die soon after UVC exposure. It is advised that UV lights be utilized in addition to both high efficiency filtration and ventilation equipment. All three work together to give you the best, most pure indoor air for your home.
Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Recommended?
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning suggest installing UV lights for enhanced indoor air quality. This solution can offer relief to anyone dealing with asthma and allergies, especially in warm, humid climates where microorganisms flourish. Unlike air purifiers, UV lights can:
- Filter the air in your entire home
- Destroy the majority of viruses, bacteria and mold
- Enhance your HVAC system’s lifespan
- Prevent the likelihood of producing ozone
If you decide a UV germicidal light is beneficial for your home, speak with one of our indoor air quality Experts today. We can walk you through the ideal combination of systems based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. Remember, you should still use an HVAC air filtration system to trap dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights can’t affect non-living allergens. To learn more about different air cleaning methods, or to request a free home health consultation, call us at 954-736-4314 today!
