Indoor air quality is important for every household. If you lack the right air quality products, indoor air is frequently two to five times more polluted compared to outdoor air. But with different air cleaning methods on the market, how do you determine which one is right for your home and family? Here’s a comparison of two quality choices—air purifiers and UV lights.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers are designed to improve 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 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, including mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, ozone generators, electronic air purifiers, and ionization systems. They all work somewhat differently, but the goal is the same—to capture airborne substances. However, once allergens settle to the floor, purifiers can no longer capture and remove them.
One underlying byproduct with a number of air purifiers is that they generate ozone. Whether in its natural form or blended with other chemicals, ozone can be detrimental to health. Breathing ozone weakens 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 weaken it! Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendations, homeowners are encouraged to utilize proven methods 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 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 system 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 very simple: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your ductwork, where it runs throughout the day. Every time the air conditioner or furnace starts, indoor air containing particles blows past the light. Airborne microorganisms are inactivated after just 10 seconds of contact, rendering them unable to reproduce until they die shortly after UVC exposure. It is suggested that UV lights be utilized in conjunction with both high efficiency filtration and ventilation accessories. All three work together to produce the best, most pure indoor air for your home.
Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Best?
Midland Air Service Experts suggest installing UV lights for enhanced indoor air quality. This solution can offer relief to anyone dealing with asthma and allergies, especially in hot, humid climates where microorganisms flourish. Unlike air purifiers, UV lights can:
- Clean the air in your entire home
- Eliminate most viruses, bacteria and mold
- Increase your HVAC system’s lifespan
- Minimize the potential of producing ozone
If you think a UV germicidal light is best for your home, discuss it 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. Remember, you should still have an HVAC air filtration system to remove dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights don’t affect inorganic allergens. To learn more about available air cleaning methods, or to request a free home health consultation, call us at 803-399-7208 today!