Which is Better for Air Purification: HEPA Filters or UV Light?

When it comes to air purification, there are two main options: HEPA filters and UV light. Learn about the differences between these two methods and how they can be used together for optimal results.

Which is Better for Air Purification: HEPA Filters or UV Light?

When it comes to air purification, there are two main options: HEPA filters and UV light. HEPA filters are renowned for their high particle reduction rates, and they can capture more than 99.9% of viruses in a single pass. On the other hand, UV lights are designed to eliminate bacteria, germs, and viruses, but they are ineffective against other types of air pollutants. To get the best possible indoor air quality, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning recommends installing both HEPA filters and UV lights. HEPA filters work by trapping harmful contaminants inside the air purifier as contaminated air passes through it.

These filters are capable of removing up to 99.97% of all air pollutants as small as 0.3 microns. UV light, on the other hand, uses certain ultraviolet wavelengths to literally destroy pathogens and air pollutants. The highest-energy UV light is UV-C light, which has the fastest wavelength and can inactivate pathogens and microorganisms by altering the structure and function of their DNA. UV purification is more effective when microorganisms have prolonged contact with light, so the longer the virus or other spores are bathed in it, the greater the damage to particles and the cleaner the air will be. However, UV light just doesn't work fast enough for what it's designed for, so it must shine on different particles between 6 seconds and 1 minute to effectively destroy them. In conclusion, both HEPA filters and UV lights have their own advantages when it comes to air purification.

HEPA filters are great for capturing viruses while UV lights help eliminate bacteria, germs, and viruses. To get the best possible indoor air quality, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning recommends installing both HEPA filters and UV lights. For those looking to improve their indoor air quality, it's important to understand the differences between HEPA filters and UV light. However, neither one is a complete solution on its own; for optimal results, both should be used together. With a combination of HEPA filtration and UV light purification, you can be sure that your home or office is free from harmful airborne particles.

Bryan Berschauer
Bryan Berschauer

Subtly charming twitter fanatic. Proud music aficionado. Lifelong food ninja. Typical beer advocate. Hardcore food maven. Hipster-friendly beer nerd.