Air purifiers are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to improve the air quality in their homes. UV air purifiers are one type of air purifier that uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air. While these devices can be effective in filtering bacteria from the air, there are some drawbacks to consider. One of the main issues with UV air purifiers is that air often passes through them too quickly for the UV rays to make any difference.
Some bacteria can regenerate and infect you again even after being disinfected with UV light. Additionally, UV light does not work against particles, such as PM2 particles. Another potential problem with UV air purifiers is that they can emit ozone. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using air purifiers with a carbon filter or HEPA filter instead of ultraviolet or UV light. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also does not recommend using UV light inside a HEPA filtration system.
Despite these drawbacks, there are some advantages to using a UV air purifier. When air passes through the filter of a UV air purifier, it reaches an internal chamber where UV light treats unwanted components found in the air, such as microbes and pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. This provides an extra layer of protection against airborne contaminants. However, it is important to note that microorganisms must be directly exposed to UV light to be killed.
Something as dense as a HEPA filter makes it impossible to guarantee full visibility. Additionally, buyers should ensure that the UV air purifier they choose is carefully designed to prevent insulated cables or other plastic parts from being exposed to UV light. In conclusion, while UV air purifiers can offer some benefits in terms of filtering bacteria from the air, there are some drawbacks to consider. The EPA and CDC do not recommend using ultraviolet or UV light inside a HEPA filtration system. Additionally, microorganisms must be directly exposed to UV light to be killed and something as dense as a HEPA filter makes it impossible to guarantee full visibility.
Buyers should ensure that the UV air purifier they choose is carefully designed to prevent insulated cables or other plastic parts from being exposed to UV light.
