Last Updated on January 2, 2024
According to the EPA , poor indoor air quality can have a negative impact on human health. Since the concentrations of some indoor pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher 
than typical outdoor concentrations, taking measures to improve air quality is important. One method of doing so involves UV-C air and surface disinfection models, which use germicidal ultraviolet light to deactivate harmful pathogens. The 3 questions answered below will help you understand germicidal ultraviolet (UV-C) light and how it works.
First, is what is ultraviolet?
The answer is that ultraviolet light is part of the light spectrum, which is classified into three wavelength ranges: UV-C, from 100 nanometers (nm) to 280 nm; UV-B, from 280 nm to 315 nm; and UV-A, from 315 nm to 400 nm. The UV-C wavelengths that range from 100 nm to 280 nm are germicidal.
Secondly, how does germicidal ultraviolet light purify air and surfaces?
Germicidal ultraviolet (UV-C) light deactivates the DNA of bacteria, virus, and other pathogens — destroying their ability to multiply and cause disease. Specifically, UV-C light causes damage to the nucleic acid of microorganisms by forming covalent bonds between certain adjacent bases in the DNA. The formation of such bonds prevents the DNA from being unzipped for replication, and the organism is unable to reproduce. In fact, when the organism tries to replicate, it dies.
Finally, how do UV-C air and surface disinfection models work?
UV-C Air and Surface Disinfection models contain one or more germicidal ultraviolet lamps. Germicidal lamps are short-wave, low-pressure tubes that produce ultraviolet wavelengths lethal to microorganisms. Approximately 95% of the ultraviolet energy emitted is at 254 nanometers. This wavelength is in the region of maximum germicidal effectiveness and is highly lethal to virus, bacteria, and mold spores. As the air passes through the UV-C purifier chamber or the surface is exposed to germicidal UV light, the genetic material of microorganisms is deactivated, preventing them from reproducing and rendering them harmless.
Learn More About UV-C Air and Surface Disinfection & Shop Our Full Product Line
Made in the USA from U.S. and imported parts, the UV-C air and surface disinfection models from Atlantic Ultraviolet Corporation® are constructed of the highest quality materials for ultimate durability. Our UV Application Specialists will help you decide which one is right for any particular residential, commercial, or industrial application.
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