UV Air Sanitizers and Purifiers: What They Are and Why They’re Needed
Indoor air quality plays a major role in a family’s health. Eye irritation, allergies, fatigue, and asthma are all often related and exacerbated by poor air quality. However, there are some things homeowners can do to take control of indoor air quality.
In this article, experts share information on the benefits of installing a UV air sanitizer or purifier in the home and how to choose the right one for every application.
What are UV Air Sanitizers and Air Purifiers?
UV air sanitizers and air purifiers are cleaning technology for a home’s air ducting system. They each go about cleaning the air differently, but both options can be added to or paired with a home’s existing HVAC system.
- UV Air Sanitizers: This particular method uses ultraviolet (UV) light to sanitize the air. Sanitizing is not exactly the same thing as purifying, but they are two sides to the same coin. Sanitizing uses the UV light to exterminate microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, and dust mites in the air. It also prevents microorganisms from reproducing, which reduces their presence in the air.
- Air Purifiers: This type of air cleaner technology directly removes the allergens and microorganisms from the air. Air purifiers use filters, ionization, or a combination of the two. Air purifiers are divided into two types: active and passive. Passive purifiers use filters to capture and remove the microorganisms from the air. Active purifiers release negatively charged ions. This causes the microorganisms, germs, dust, and irritants to stick to surfaces. The stuck materials can then be removed by cleaning.
Which System Is Better?
Long story short, it really depends on a home’s specific needs. Each system is great for filling specific needs, but neither is perfect. Check out the list of pros and cons below to get a better idea of what system may work best for the home.
UV Air Sanitizer Pros:
- Systems can often be added to the pre-existing HVAC system.
- Kills viruses, germs, spores, and dust mites.
- Prevents the growth of microorganisms.
- Prevents the growth of mold and mildew.
- A natural method of cleaning the air.
- Produces little to no ozone.
UV Air Sanitizer Cons:
- Does not prevent dust or allergen collection on surfaces. Works best by applying prolonged exposure to UV light - requires more time to work.
- May need an electrical upgrade to use a larger sanitizing machine.
- Requires good air circulation throughout the whole house to work well. Cleaning air ducts and vents is an extra cost but do ensure better functioning.
Air Purifier Pros:
- Cost-effective and easy to set up.
- Can usually be added to the current HVAC system.
- The passive method removes pollen, dust, and dander from the air using filters.
- Passive methods remove dust from the air, which improves sleep.
- A natural method of cleaning the air.
Air Purifier Cons:
- Typically requires a fan always running in the HVAC system.
- Constant fan running may impact energy bills.
- Active methods use negatively charged ions to cause materials to stick to surfaces. These surfaces then need to be wiped down to remove the irritants.
- Produces small amounts of ozone. There are health risks related to high amounts of ions and ozone in the air but do not typically arise from air purifiers.
- Only removes mold spores from the air, but does not prevent its growth.
- Does not effectively stop the growth of microorganisms.
Which System Works Best?
Anything that breathes benefits from cleaner air. Asthmatics, allergy sufferers, children, and seniors especially should look for ways to keep their air cleaner.
Concerns over pet dander, dust, and pollen allergens are best addressed by an Air Purifier that would physically remove the irritants from the air. If the focus is on killing germs and viruses and preventing mildew and mold growth, consider a UV Air Sanitizer.
A qualified local HVAC technician will have more information that will help select the right air cleaning system for the home.
About Cleary Plumbing & Air
Serving the West Palm Beach area for over 25 years, Cleary Plumbing & Air has the experience to tackle any plumbing or HVAC issue. They are a locally owned, family-operated business that prioritizes customer satisfaction. Their 24-hour service and exceptional care of your home and family have earned them a reputation as a professional and effective service provider in the community.
