Indoor air quality is something to keep in mind for every homeowner. If you lack the proper air quality products, indoor air is often two to five times more polluted compared to outdoor air. But with a large number of air cleaning methods to choose from, how do you find out which one is correct for your home and family? Here’s a comparison of two top 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 capture odor-causing molecules for a clean scent. Air purifiers can be found 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 somewhat differently, but the goal is the same—to trap airborne particulates. However, once allergens fall to the floor, purifiers can no longer catch and remove them.
One underlying side-effect with several air purifiers is that they create ozone. Whether in its raw form or combined with other chemicals, ozone can be detrimental to health. Being exposed to 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 install an air purifier to improve indoor air quality, not weaken it! Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendations, homeowners are reminded to utilize proven techniques of controlling indoor air pollution. These methods include phasing out or controlling pollutant sources, increasing outdoor air ventilation and using any proven methods of air cleaning that doesn’t add 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 wipes out bacteria and molds. UV lamps have been used as a sterilization method in hospitals and food production for a very long time. When added to your HVAC system, UV lights can dramatically boost indoor air quality.
The process is surprisingly uncomplicated: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your ventilation system, where it runs throughout the day. Any time the air conditioner or furnace activates, indoor air containing pollutants drifts through the light. Airborne microorganisms are made sterile after just 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 give you the best, most pure indoor air for your home.
Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Recommended?
Epperson Service Experts recommends installing UV lights for maximum indoor air quality. This solution can offer relief to people dealing with asthma and allergies, particularly in warm, humid settings where microorganisms flourish. Unlike air purifiers, UV lights can:
- Improve the air in your entire home
- Eradicate the majority of viruses, bacteria and mold
- Lengthen your HVAC system’s lifespan
- Prevent the possibility of generating ozone
If you decide a UV germicidal light is useful for your home, speak with one of our indoor air quality Experts today. We can suggest 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 dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights won't affect non-living allergens. To learn more about these air cleaning methods, or to schedule a free home health consultation, call us at 843-619-3781 right away!