Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights: What’s Ideal for My Home? 

Indoor air quality is important for every home. Without the right air quality products, indoor air is frequently two to five times more polluted over outdoor air. But with a large number of air cleaning methods to choose from, how do you know which one is right 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 increase indoor air quality by filtering dust, tobacco smoke, and pollen from the air. Some also capture 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 several types of air purifiers, including mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, ozone generators, electronic air purifiers, and ionization systems. They all work a little differently, but the goal is the same—to capture airborne pollutants. However, once allergens fall to the floor, purifiers can no longer capture and remove them.

One frequent problem with many air purifiers is that they create ozone. Whether in its natural form or mixed with other chemicals, ozone can be detrimental to health. Exposure to ozone weakens lung function and escalates the risk of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain and lung inflammation. This is an ironic side effect, since a homeowner would only purchase an air purifier to improve indoor air quality, not weaken it! Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidance, homeowners are encouraged to utilize proven methods of reducing indoor air pollution. These methods include removing or controlling pollutant sources, adding outdoor air ventilation and using any proven methods of air cleaning that doesn’t intensify 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 called germicidal because it inactivates most viruses and kills bacteria and molds. UV lamps have been used as a sterilization mechanism in hospitals and food production for decades. When placed in your HVAC system, UV lights can dramatically improve indoor air quality.

The process is quite straightforward: an ultraviolet lamp is installed in your ventilation system, where it runs continuously. Every time the air conditioner or furnace activates, indoor air containing pollutants drifts near the light. Airborne microorganisms are made sterile within 10 seconds of contact, rendering them unable to reproduce until they die shortly after UVC exposure. It is encouraged that UV lights be utilized in addition to both high efficiency filtration and ventilation equipment. All three work in tandem to produce the best, most pure indoor air for your home.

Air Purifiers vs. UV Lights – Which is Better?

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing recommends installing UV lights for the highest possible indoor air quality. This solution can bring relief to those struggling with asthma and allergies, namely in hot, humid settings where microorganisms prosper. Unlike air purifiers, UV lights can:

• • Filter the air in your entire home

• • Eradicate the majority of viruses, bacteria and mold

• • Extend your HVAC system’s lifespan

• • Minimize the likelihood of creating ozone

If you believe a UV germicidal light is right for your home, talk with one of our indoor air quality Experts today. We can recommend the ideal combination of equipment based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. Don’t forget, you should still use an HVAC air filtration system to remove dust, pollen and pet dander since UV lights don’t affect inanimate allergens. To learn more about these air cleaning methods, or to request a free home health consultation, call us at 866-397-3787 now!