Indoor air quality is important for every homeowner. If you lack the right air quality products, indoor air is often two to five times more contaminated over outdoor air. But with different air cleaning methods to choose from, how do you recognize which one is ideal for your home and family? Here’s a comparison of two popular methods—air purifiers and UV lights.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers are designed to increase indoor air quality by trapping dust, tobacco smoke, and pollen from the air. Some also collect odor-causing molecules for a fresher scent. Air purifiers are available in a portable form, which means they can only work in one room at a time.
There are many types of air purifiers, such as mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, ozone generators, electronic air purifiers, and ionization systems. They all perform a little differently, but the goal is the same—to capture airborne particles. However, once allergens settle to the floor, purifiers can no longer capture and remove them.
One frequent problem with several air purifiers is that they generate ozone. Whether in its raw form or mixed with other chemicals, ozone can be hazardous to health. Exposure to ozone decreases lung function and intensifies the risk of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain and lung inflammation. This is an ironic side effect, considering that 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 advised to stick to proven systems of controlling indoor air pollution. These methods include removing or controlling pollutant sources, bolstering outdoor air ventilation and using any proven methods of air cleaning that doesn’t intensify or produce 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 a very long time. When placed in your HVAC system, UV lights can greatly improve indoor air quality.
The process is very uncomplicated: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your ductwork, where it runs throughout the day. Each time the air conditioner or furnace activates, indoor air containing pollutants blows past 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 encouraged that UV lights be installed in addition to both high efficiency filtration and ventilation accessories. All three work in tandem to give you the best, most pure indoor air for your home.
Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Best?
Winnipeg Supply Service Experts encourages you to consider installing UV lights for maximum indoor air quality. This solution can provide relief to those struggling with asthma and allergies, especially in sunny, humid regions 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
- Prevent the possibility of creating ozone
If you believe a UV germicidal light is useful 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 install an HVAC air filtration system to trap dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights don’t affect inanimate allergens. To learn more about these air cleaning methods, or to schedule a free home health consultation, call us at 204-800-0613 now!