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UV Air Purification Using An Air Purifier (Part 3)
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Maximizing Exposure To UV Through Air Purification
Since UV rays are primarily emitted perpendicular to the surface of the lamp purifier,
lamps should be located at right angles to the air flow, so that the rays are
emitted parallel to the airflow. This will maximize the exposure time for
airborne bacteria as they flow through the HVAC duct system. Placing an air purification lamp on the duct wall parallel to the airflow decreases the
area of transmission of the radiation to only the width of the duct. Placing a
lamp in a tube restricts the UV radiation to only the air passing through the
tube.
Most Effective:
When the lamp purifier is located at right angles to the air flow,airborne bacteria is
irradiated for the longest period of time (see shaded area).
Less Effective:
When the lamp purifier is located on the duct wall parallel to the air flow, air is
irradiated only while passing the short distance along the lamp (see shaded
area).
Least Effective:
When the lamp purifier is located in a pipe or tube, only the air that passes through
the tube is irradiated (see shaded area).
Installation Locations
Locating the UV lamp in the supply duct over the A/C coil is the first choice
as this is downstream of the air filter, keeping the lamp clean. Also, the lamp
will inhibit bacteria growth in condensation formed on the air conditioning
coil, a prime breeding ground for bacteria, spores and viruses which can become
airborne. Alternatively, install the UV device in the return air duct,
preferably downstream of the air filter. Installing a UV device in both the
supply (over the A/C coil) and the return is ideal for its cumulative effect.
Output Life
It is important that lamps be replaced when the ultraviolet output falls below
minimum requirements for protection. Even though a lamp may appear to be
operating satisfactorily because it still maintains the blue visible glow, the
ultraviolet output may be significantly reduced.
To maintain maximum benefits, UV lamps should be replaced annually.
Cleaning
Lamps should be wiped with a clean cloth dampened with alcohol or ammonia and
water in order to eliminate oil, dirt, and fingerprints for maximum ultraviolet
output. Conditions of the application will dictate how often lamps need to be
wiped, however, it is recommended to clean the lamps every 6 months.
Lamps should be located downstream of the filter to maintain lamp cleanliness and
efficiency.
Summary
With tighter home construction, indoor air quality has declined dramatically.
Indoor air is laden with invisible bacteria, viruses, toxins and molds.
Filtering systems offer little or no solution because these airborne
contaminants are so small they pass through the filter or simply collect on the
filter medium, creating a breeding ground. Recirculated air contains millions
of disease and allergy-causing microorganisms which not only live in the air,
but are multiplying with each cycle through the system.
Ultraviolet radiation
(UV-C) replicates the natural outdoor purification system of the sun by
destroying the allergy and disease-causing microbes living and multiplying in
indoor air. Ultraviolet radiation is a safe, cost-effective method of purifying
indoor air. By itself, or in combination with a HEPA or like-quality filter, it
is the most effective way to reduce airborne bacteria and the health risks they
represent. The result is a clean, safe, healthy home environment.
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