What is a UV Water Purifier and How Does It Work?

Summary

This video from Fresh Water Systems covers the essentials of UV water systems, explaining how they work and why they are important. UV water systems use germicidal ultraviolet light to disinfect water by deactivating bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. The video outlines key components such as the quartz sleeve and UV lamp, and discusses installation, maintenance, and costs. UV systems are recommended for private wells, industrial applications, and as an added defense for municipal water, especially in cases of contamination or boil water advisories.

Takeaways

• 💡 UV water systems use germicidal ultraviolet light to disinfect water by deactivating living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and cysts.
• 🛠️ The components of a UV system include a chamber, quartz glass sleeve, a UV lamp, and O-rings to seal the system.
• 🔧 Installation of a UV system is straightforward, with the unit placed at the point of entry to disinfect all household water.
• 💧 UV systems don't remove contaminants like chemicals or alter taste; they strictly deactivate living organisms.
• 🏡 UV systems are ideal for private well owners and are commonly used in households and industries for water disinfection.
• 💰 UV system costs vary by size, but for a typical homeowner, point-of-entry systems are around $400-$500.
• 🧼 Maintenance includes replacing the UV lamp annually and cleaning or replacing the quartz sleeve every two years.
• ⚙️ UV systems can be combined with other water treatment methods, such as filtration or water softeners, to enhance water quality.
• ⚠️ A UV system provides extra protection against waterborne pathogens even for those on municipal water, safeguarding during boil alerts or system failures.
• 🔬 The small balls seen inside the UV lamp are mercury beads, which vaporize to power the lamp and produce the germicidal wavelength.

Q & A

What is a UV water system?

A UV water system is a disinfection process that uses germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light to deactivate living organisms in water. It works by exposing the water to a germicidal wavelength of UV radiation that disrupts the DNA of harmful microorganisms, making them unable to reproduce or cause illness.

How does a UV water system work?

A UV water system works by passing water through a chamber with a UV lamp. The germicidal UV wavelength scrambles the DNA of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and cysts, deactivating them and preventing them from reproducing or causing illness.

What are the main components of a UV water system?

The main components include a chamber to house the system, a quartz glass sleeve to protect the lamp from water, the UV lamp that emits germicidal wavelengths, and o-rings to seal the system. The quartz glass is essential because it allows the UV wavelength to pass through while protecting the lamp from water exposure.

How do you install and disconnect a UV water system?

To install a UV water system, interrupt the water line entering the house and connect the UV system. It is typically installed at the point of entry for whole-house disinfection. To disconnect, remove the fittings and back the system out.

What types of contaminants does a UV water system remove?

A UV water system only deactivates living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and cysts. It does not remove chemical contaminants, taste, or odor from the water.

What applications are UV water systems used for?

UV water systems are used in various applications, including household point-of-entry disinfection for private wells, water storage tanks, and wastewater treatment. They are also used in industries that require potable water or waste treatment.

How much does a UV water system typically cost?

The cost of a UV water system varies based on its size and the flow rate of water it needs to disinfect. For homeowners, a point-of-entry UV system typically costs around $400 to $500.

What maintenance does a UV water system require?

UV water systems require minimal maintenance. The UV lamp needs to be replaced annually due to the depletion of mercury vapor inside, which fuels the lamp. The quartz sleeve should be cleaned regularly and replaced every two years.

Can a UV water system be used with other water treatment systems?

Yes, UV systems are often combined with other water treatment systems like sediment filtration or water softeners. Pre-filtration with at least a 5-micron filter is essential to remove particles that could block the UV light from effectively disinfecting the water.

Is a UV water system necessary if I get municipal water?

While municipal water is treated, a UV water system provides an extra layer of defense, especially during events like boil water advisories or contamination incidents. UV systems can deactivate organisms that resist chlorine treatment, such as cryptosporidium, ensuring safer water in emergencies.