Certain pollutants and allergens have a higher chance of being found indoors rather than outdoors. To make sure they have good indoor air quality free of these allergens, many homeowners opt to use air purifiers. Air purifiers use all kinds of technology to reduce toxic, allergy-inducing particles in homes; HEPA filters, carbon filters and UV lights are just a few. While there is a lot that can be written about air purifiers and how you can keep your air clean, today the team at Acree is going to focus on how you can clean air with UV lights.
What is UV Light?
UV light or “ultraviolet light” is an electromagnetic form of radiation much like radio waves and x-rays. Radiated from the sun and other sources such as tanning beds, UV light can be detrimental to your skin and prolonged exposure can lead to skin cancer. It is divided up into three types of radiation—UV-A, UV-B and UV-C.
How Does UV Light Purify Air?
While UV light isn’t particularly good for you or your skin, it can help purify your air. Essentially, the UV lights rid indoor air of harmful airborne particles by destroying cells. When a UV light technology air purifier is plugged in, air is sucked into the purifier and passes through a filter, often a HEPA filter. After the air makes its way into the air purifier it passes through a small compartment containing UV-light. The UV light will then destroy the nucleic acids in the allergens’ cells, which can either kill them or stop them from performing vital functions.
What Particles Can UV Light Prevent?
UV light is especially effective in protecting your home from:
- Mold and mildew
- Bacteria
- Viruses
Air purifiers with UV lights won’t be as effective in removing dust and dander particles, though some UV light air purifiers have been modified to perform this function as well.
Will I be Exposed to UV Radiation?
If your main reservation about UV light air purifiers is that you will be exposed to UV radiation, you don’t need to worry. While air purifiers will use UV lights to kill airborne mold and bacteria, you will not be exposed to UV radiation at all.
Is A UV Air Purifier Worth It?
If you are worried about mold growth in your home and you or your family members have had reactions to microorganisms such as mold spores or bacteria present in your air, a UV purifier might be what you need. With a germicidal UV air cleaner mounted in your duct system, you can rest assured that your indoor air will be far healthier and cleaner.
Have More Questions About UV Light Air Purifiers? Contact Acree Plumbing and Air!
If you want to learn more about how you can clean your air with UV lights, get in touch with the pros at Acree Plumbing and Air! Call us today at (813) 530-9061 or schedule a service on our website!
