Ultraviolet (UV) Light
|
Background
Ultraviolet (UV) light utilizes radiation disrupting cellular DNA to kill microbes but is not utilized for removal of chemical contaminants. This treatment tool is generally used as a final step in reverse osmosis (RO) systems to improve the efficiency of microbe removal originating from the source water or that may grow in the POU system over time. All units require some level of routine maintenance, which may include cleaning and sanitizing and filter or light changes. In addition, some units require professional installation with associated labor fees. |
Example of a UV Treatment System
|
A key advantage of UV light disinfection is that it can inactivate hard-to control organisms without chemical additions that can alter taste and does not produce harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs). However, this also means that no residual is produced, so there’s no post-treatment protection while the water passes through the distribution system.
In addition, unlike conventional disinfectants, chemical water quality parameters, i.e., pH, temperature, alkalinity and total inorganic carbon, don’t impact UV efficacy. Treatment is completed in seconds in flow-through systems, eliminating the need for holding tanks and long contact times. Operating costs are relatively low compared to other conventional and alternative treatments.
In addition, unlike conventional disinfectants, chemical water quality parameters, i.e., pH, temperature, alkalinity and total inorganic carbon, don’t impact UV efficacy. Treatment is completed in seconds in flow-through systems, eliminating the need for holding tanks and long contact times. Operating costs are relatively low compared to other conventional and alternative treatments.
|
Benefits:
|
Limitations
|
|
|