Indoor air quality is something to keep in mind for every household. If you lack the proper air quality products, indoor air is frequently two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. But with different air cleaning methods available, how do you recognize which one is ideal for your home and family? Here’s a comparison of two quality options—air purifiers and UV lights.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers are designed to improve indoor air quality by filtering 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 be used in one room at a time.
There are different types of air purifiers, such as mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, ozone generators, electronic air purifiers, and ionization systems. They all function somewhat differently, but the goal is the same—to filter out airborne particulates. However, once allergens settle to the floor, purifiers can no longer trap and remove them.
One common side-effect with many air purifiers is that they generate ozone. Whether in its raw form or blended with other chemicals, ozone can be hazardous to health. Being exposed to ozone decreases lung function and enhances the risk of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain and lung inflammation. This is an ironic side effect, because a homeowner would only use an air purifier to improve indoor air quality, not make it worse! Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) instructions, homeowners are advised to utilize proven methods of managing indoor air pollution. These methods include eliminating or controlling pollutant sources, adding outdoor air ventilation and using any proven methods of air cleaning that doesn’t increase 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 wipes out bacteria and molds. UV lamps have been used as a sterilization mechanism in hospitals and food production for many years. When installed in your HVAC system, UV lights can greatly increase indoor air quality.
The process is surprisingly uncomplicated: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your ductwork, where it runs constantly. Any time the air conditioner or furnace activates, indoor air containing particulates blows through 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 recommended that UV lights be used in addition to both high efficiency filtration and ventilation systems. All three work together to provide the best, most pure indoor air for your home.
Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Better?
Wesley Wood Service Experts encourages you to consider installing UV lights for enhanced indoor air quality. This solution can offer relief to anyone struggling with asthma and allergies, especially in warm, humid climates where microorganisms prosper. Unlike air purifiers, UV lights can:
- Filter the air in your entire home
- Eradicate most viruses, bacteria and mold
- Lengthen your HVAC system’s lifespan
- Prevent the likelihood of producing ozone
If you decide a UV germicidal light is useful for your home, chat with one of our indoor air quality specialists today. We can recommend the perfect combination of products based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. Don’t forget, you should still have an HVAC air filtration system to remove dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights won't affect inanimate allergens. To learn more about these air cleaning methods, or to arrange a free home health consultation, call us at 484-401-7577 today!