The Power of UV-C Lamps
As taught in our FAQ post on germicidal ultraviolet light, UV-C rays at the wavelength of 254 nanometers (nm) destroy the DNA structure of harmful bacteria, viruses, and mold. UV-C air and surface disinfection models use one or more germicidal UV lamps to make many microorganisms harmless. Read on for more details on how they work.
Operation of UV-C Air and Surface Disinfection Models
Germicidal ultraviolet disinfection is rapid, low-maintenance, and does not use chemicals or produce byproducts. Air and/or surfaces can be treated with UV-C in the following ways:
An Enclosed Disinfection Chamber
These models draw in air with a blower, expose it to UV-C rays, and expel it back into the room with harmful microorganisms neutralized. Since lamps are not visible and UV-C rays never exit the chamber, this method (called “room air disinfection”) can be used in occupied rooms.
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Indirect Exposure of Upper Room Air
Indirect UV air disinfection models use louvers and a polished reflector to safely project UV-C rays across air in the upper portion of an occupied room. Bacteria and viruses carried into the “ultraviolet field” by air currents or circulation are destroyed. These fixtures must be mounted high enough (on all wall or ceiling) in order to avoid room occupant exposure.
Direct Exposure
These models have lamps visible, which directly expose microorganisms to UV-C rays. Since UV-C is harmful to the eyes and skin, direct disinfection must only take place in unoccupied areas or when proper protective gear is worn. Shop the following direct UV disinfection product lines on AtlanticUltraviolet.com:
Direct Exposure Inside Air Ducts
Certain UV-C models can be mounted onto air ducts, accomplishing direct air stream and duct surface disinfection. These designs work best when installed perpendicular to airflow and directed at the condenser coil. Since the ultraviolet lamps are completely housed within the air duct, room occupants are always protected from UV-C rays.
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Intensity + Time = Proper UV-C Air and Surface Disinfection
Exposure time is how long air and/or surfaces have contact with UV-C rays, using one of the three methods mentioned above. To achieve proper disinfection, air and surfaces must be exposed to UV-C light (at the wavelength of 254 nanometers) for an appropriate amount of time, depending on the lamp’s intensity. When used for surface disinfection, multiple treatment cycles may be needed for places where UV rays are obstructed. View our microorganisms page for UV-C dosage data for many different bacteria and viruses carried by air and surfaces.
Read our other FAQ to learn about UV water purifier operation.
Learn More & Shop UV Disinfection
Ultraviolet.com is your source for learning about germicidal ultraviolet technology and its many uses for water, liquid, air, and surfaces. Browse the following pages for more information.
Shop at AtlanticUltraviolet.com
- Shop UV-C Water & Liquid Disinfectionopen_in_new
- Shop UV-C Air & Surface Disinfectionopen_in_new
- Shop STER-L-RAY® Germicidal UV Lampsopen_in_new
- Shop Safety Productsopen_in_new
Contact Us
- Call (631) 273-0500, Monday – Friday 7am to 6pm EST
- Email Sales@AtlanticUV.com
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