UV Air Filtration: The Proven Impact of Ultraviolet Technology

As the weather cools down and many of us spend most of our time indoors, the importance of the quality of indoor air increases.  HEPA filters are typically top of mind for air purification when searching for a solution to improve indoor air quality, and while they effectively capture viruses and bacteria, they do not eliminate them - pathogens may remain active on the filter surface.  UV Air Filtration, on the other hand, has gained more traction over the years as a highly effective air purification method.  The role of UV technology in air purification has evolved through history, with scientific research proving it’s powerful impact in the world of healthcare.

What is UV Air Filtration and How Does it Work?

UV air purification systems use short-wave ultraviolet light (between 100 – 280 nm), also know as UV-C light.  They differ from other methods such as HEPA filters, as they work to deactivate the molecular structure of various airborne pathogens like mold, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and allergens.  This process, known as ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), can be used to sanitize air, water, and surfaces.

UV air filtration can be used as an alternative to chemical disinfectants, which is safer for you and the environment.  To work effectively, UVC requires direct line-of-sight; therefore to adequately tackle airborne pathogens, the UVC light must be installed within an enclosed system, such as the ductwork of your home’s cooling and heating system, which will also prevent direct contact with skin and eyes.  

HEPA filters alone simply physically capture the particles, and in most cases smaller microorganisms get past the HEPA filter and recirculate in the air that you breathe.  UVC Air Purification Systems, on the other hand, especially at the 254 nm wavelength range, most effectively damage the genetic structure of the microorganisms, preventing them from multiplying, therefore deactivating them, and ultimately removing them from your indoor air.  In addition, UVC can be used to purify the air in an entire home, especially when integrated into an HVAC system. 

UV Technology and Roadmap to It’s Discovery

Ultraviolet (UV) light is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that has a wavelength shorter than visible light but longer than x-rays.  Ultraviolet consists of 3 types, UVA, UVB, and UVC.  UVA is long-wave UV or black light, not absorbed by the ozone layer.  UVB is medium-wave UV, mostly absorbed by the ozone layer.  Lastly, UVC is short-wave UV, ionizing radiation, and absorbed by the ozone layer.   As shown in the image below, UVC is superior to UVA and UVB for air purification due to its shorter wavelength and higher energy which effectively damages the DNA of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and mold.

According to Science Notes  and other credible sources, the discovery of UV light dates back to 1801 when the German physicist Johann Wilhelm Ritter noticed that silver chloride darkened more when exposed to light beyond the range of vision than to violet light. Ritter called this radiation “de-oxidizing rays” to distinguish it from the “heat rays” (infrared radiation) discovered in 1800 at the opposite end of the visible spectrum. The name changed to “chemical rays” and finally “ultraviolet radiation”.

Benefits of UVC Air Purification Systems

Health and Air Quality Benefits

1. Kills airborne pathogens: UVC light destroys the DNA or RNA of viruses, bacteria, and mold spores, preventing them from reproducing.

2. Reduces illness transmission: Helps minimize the spread of colds, flu, and other respiratory infections, especially in shared spaces.

3. Improves overall indoor air quality: Continuously disinfects the air as it circulates, leading to cleaner, fresher breathing environments.

4. Allergy and asthma relief: Reduces allergens like mold, bacteria, and dust mite particles that trigger symptoms.

Efficiency and Performance Benefits

1. Works continuously and silently: Provides around-the-clock purification without noise or moving parts.

2. Complements HVAC systems: Installed within existing ductwork, it enhances your heating and cooling system without affecting airflow.

3. Low maintenance: UVC lamps generally require replacement only once a year, with minimal upkeep.

4. Energy-efficient operation: Consumes very little electricity while maintaining high disinfection efficiency.

Environmental and Comfort Benefits

1. Reduces odors: Helps break down the outer shells of bacteria and mold spores, removing their ability to reproduce and limiting their ability to infest your home with unpleasant smells, ultimately improving indoor freshness.  However, they are ineffective against VOCs as only charcoal filters will help combat these compounds.

2. Prevents mold growth in HVAC components: Keeps coils and ducts clean, improving system efficiency and longevity.

3. Environmentally friendly: Reduces the need for chemical disinfectants or sprays.

4. Improves occupant comfort: Cleaner air contributes to better breathing, productivity, and overall wellness.


Swordfish UVC Air Purification Systems

With over two decades on the market and the strength of a parent company boasting almost 100 years of electrical and ballast engineering excellence, Swordfish UV continues to set the standard in air purification - delivering reliable, cleaner air solutions to homes across the country.

Swordfish UV air filtration systems operate at 254 nm wavelength, and effectively improve indoor air quality by deactivating 99.9% of microorganisms in the air that you breathe.  One application purifies your entire home with quick and easy installation in the ductwork of your home’s furnace. 

Swordfish UVC lamps are ozone-free, which means they are safe for the home environment.  In addition, safety features have been carefully designed and implemented to prevent accidental exposure to the UVC light, as direct exposure could cause harm to your eyes and skin.  A small magnet prevents the light from turning on when removed from the base of the unit, which is attached to the ductwork of your furnace.

Swordfish UVC Air Purification Systems come in a range of wattages to suit homes of all sizes. Our optional automated lamp subscription ensures timely replacements without the hassle of re-ordering, while also offering 25% savings on each lamp.

Choosing the Right Purification Method for Your Home

With many studies and literature backing the use of UV air filtration for improving indoor air quality, such as this evidence citing on Government of Canada’s website, and literature reference on ScienceDirect, UV air filtration has gained a lot of attention over the years and has served to help homeowners with improving their indoor air quality. 

With a number of options available, choosing the right one can become a daunting task.  The following guideline can help determine the best option for you:

For killing germs, viruses, and mold: UVC is a good option, especially when used with an HVAC system or a dedicated portable unit.  For optimal results, pair it with a HEPA filter to address particles as well.

For particles like allergens and dust: Use a HEPA filter

For odors and VOCs: Use an activated carbon filter

For comprehensive purification: A combination of technologies, such as a HEPA filter with activated carbon, and a UVC light, provides the most complete solution for a wide range of airborne contaminants

Visit www.swordfishuv.com for more information