UVC light has been used for disinfecting surfaces since it was discovered in the 1870s. In 1908, the French started using it for disinfecting the municipal water supply and this sparked the use of UV water purification. UV water disinfection is an effective means of water disinfection. When compared to other methods of water purification such as chemical disinfection or reverse osmosis, UV water disinfection is typically seen to offer the most advantages. 

By attacking the DNA of bacteria in the water, ultraviolet (UV) rays destroy pathogens and the bacteria that cause illness. Ultraviolet water purification is the most effective way to eliminate bacteria from the water. This method is extremely efficient when it comes to eliminating their reproduction ability. 

UV disinfection sounds simple: the 254nm energy emitted by the UV lamp must reach the target microorganisms in the supply water. Nevertheless, some barriers interfere with UV's effectiveness, such as Organic compounds such as humic or fumic acids absorb UV light in water almost exclusively. After a microorganism that has been exposed to UVC light cannot replicate - meaning they cannot produce colonies.

The UV technology segment of the water treatment industry is the fastest-growing segment today. It is widely accepted for treating microbiologically contaminated water, as well as being the most cost-effective. A variety of applications can be addressed by UV Systems, including pharmaceutical, food processing, pools, spas, manufacturing, schools, and hospitals.

Both residential and commercial users of UV water purification systems will benefit from their use. The benefits offered by UV disinfection are numerous. As a first step, you do not need to handle any potentially dangerous chemicals, such as chlorine. Additionally, UV water disinfection disinfects water almost instantly. 

When chlorine is used to disinfect water, contact tanks are required. UV disinfects water without relying on contact tanks, so it consumes less energy and is, therefore, more eco-friendly.  Since UV disinfection does not require contact tanks or the like, there are no moving parts to be replaced, making it a cost-effective solution and requiring a lower equipment investment compared to other options. The equipment for UV water purification is generally simple to maintain with very little additional spending or effort. Typical maintenance involves the simple change of a lamp.

Without adding chemicals to the water, no disinfection byproducts are lingering in the water. UV used for disinfecting water does not change the taste or odor of the water. 

UV water purification systems such as those sold by [UV PRODUCT SUPPLIER] are available internationally, found in more than 50 countries all over the world. Many of the countries these products can be found in are third-world countries that have a history of limited access to clean drinking water. UV water disinfection has proved to be an extremely viable solution for less developed countries. Although the cost can be an issue, access to reliable electricity is what makes the products unreliable. 

Both inexpensive and pricey UV systems can be on the market in abundance. It is essential that consumers purchase a quality system and do not solely base their decisions to purchase on the purchase price alone. Many offshore manufacturers make UV systems that will not work - for that reason, doing thorough research into any UV purification system is essential. 

There are several entities regulating UV in residential, commercial, industrial, municipal, and other use. For example, depending on the application, residential UV disinfection devices need to be tested and validated. Flow rates range from 0.5 to 50 USGPM, and they aren't only used in private residences. Drinking water regulations require UV disinfection devices to be tested and validated. Consumers must familiarize themselves with these regulations as part of their due diligence when researching a product. 

It's important for consumers to always buy from a reputable source and ensure the company can prove its disinfection claims by providing solid evidence. A simple way to find out if a company offers NSF-certified UV systems is to visit their website. Even in cases where a consumer doesn’t require NSF certification, looking at the company’s website will show that the company has achieved this standard and is offering validated UV products in the market.

[UV PRODUCT SUPPLIER] specializes in ultraviolet disinfection solutions. It designs, engineers, and assembles its products in Canada. With products for whole-home disinfection, light commercial, commercial/industrial, and municipal disinfection, [UV PRODUCT SUPPLIER] provides a "one-stop" solution for all your disinfection needs.