UVC air purifier
Light in the fight against viruses and bacteria What are UVC air purifiers?
UVC air purifiers are devices for uncomplicated, risk-free disinfection of indoor air. This reduces the risk of infection through the transmission of diseases. UVC disinfection is an effective alternative, especially in the cold season, when frequent ventilation is difficult. The air is circulated several times an hour.
Inside the device**, the UVC light:
- Eliminates viruses such as Covid-19, but also regular flu viruses
- Kills bacteria, fungi, germs and allergens
- Fine dust and odors filtered out
In addition to air disinfection, various devices offer surface disinfection. With this method, surfaces outside the appliance are disinfected by irradiation with UVC lamps. Special safety instructions must be observed for this use (see below for more information).
Where are UVC air purifiers used?
UVC air purifiers are increasingly used in the commercial sector, but can also be used in private environments in an uncomplicated and safe manner if operated correctly.
The disinfection of indoor air, especially in times of viral threats such as Covid-19, but also in general flu epidemics, has proven its worth in:
- Open-plan offices and conference rooms
- Training and support facilities
- Doctors' surgeries, waiting and recreation areas
- public transportation such as bus and train
- other areas with a fluctuating number of people, e.g. hairdressing and beauty salons and restaurants
Private rooms, on the other hand, are a comparatively controlled area in terms of threats such as corona, but the residents are regularly in contact with others, e.g. in kindergartens or on public transport, at work and in the supermarket. The risk of transmission through family members can be effectively reduced by UVC air purifiers. The appliances can be used in all rooms, including the living room or kitchen.
How do UVC air purifiers work?
A typical UVC air purifier consists of:
- a fan
- one or more UVC lamps
- a metal or plastic housing
In addition, air filters are installed in the appliances. Depending on the product, these are
- Particle or dust filters, which already roughly clean the air of hair and dust
- Activated carbon filter for absorbing odors
- High-quality HEPA 13 filter for cleaning the air of the smallest suspended particles
The devices are operated via plug in the socket.
A distinction is made between two modes of operation:
- Air disinfection: Cleaning the air inside the appliance
- Surface disinfection: Cleaning of surfaces outside the appliance
How does air disinfection with UVC work?
During air disinfection, the room air is drawn into the closed housing by the fan. Inside, the UVC light eliminates viruses and bacteria in the air drawn in. The cleaned air is blown out again at the other end of the housing. This function type is suitable for continuous operation with people present. There is no UVC light coming out of the device.
How does surface disinfection with UVC lighting work?
The protective housing is partially removed during surface disinfection. As a result, the UVC light radiates into the room over a wide area and disinfects surfaces. With this type of function, no persons may be present in the room and all safety instructions must be observed, as otherwise there may be harmful contact for people.
How long should UVC air purifiers run for?
This depends on the respective device. There are products that can be in use 24/7 for air purification. In contrast, surface disinfection requires irradiation for around 1 hour. Automatic modes and timers allow controlled operation of the appliance.
The manufacturer's information on the device provides more detailed instructions.
Are UVC air purifiers and UVC light harmful?
When operated correctly, UVC air purifiers are safe for health in private and commercial applications. Our range also only includes products that keep the UVC light, which is harmful to humans, inside the device and does not allow it to escape.
If the device is to be used for surface disinfection, it is necessary to remove the safety screws from the safety versions available from us. These are fitted to prevent unintentional removal of the housing, for example by children.
When using a UVC lamp for surface disinfection, it is essential to comply with all safety regulations and manufacturer's instructions, e.g. wearing long clothing during the switch-on process, avoiding looking into the device to prevent retinal damage and always keeping people and animals away during the disinfection process.
When used correctly, UVC air purifiers are also safe for use in surface disinfection mode. However, it should be noted that UVC lighting can sometimes have a damaging effect on certain surfaces, which can become discolored.
Where should a UVC air purifier be placed?
A UVC air purifier in air disinfection mode, also known as flow-through mode, must always be positioned so that it has good air circulation. This means that the appliance should not be placed directly against walls or behind the sofa in private areas. Depending on the size of the device, a good placement would be next to or on a desk or near the center of the room. The devices are available in different sizes and capacities so that they can be optimally positioned.
How many UVC air purifiers are required per room depends on the product, its air flow rate and maximum room volume. The relevant information is compiled for each product in the item details. For example, a single device can cover rooms of 50 to 84 m², which corresponds to an open-plan office or classroom.
Other regulations apply to surface disinfection. Irradiation by UVC light takes place from a short distance of around 1 m and covers a different area depending on the product. Please be sure to observe the manufacturer's instructions and safety regulations.
Can you see UVC light?
UVC light cannot be perceived by the human eye. However, switched-on UVC lamps, which must not be looked into, would appear bluish to humans. This bluish effect occurs because the wavelengths of the light emitted by the UVC lamps graze the part that is perceptible to humans.
Do you need further advice on UVC disinfection? Or do you have another question about light and lighting? Then our specialist advice team will be happy to help you: to contact form.
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