The advantages and disadvantages of UV disinfection
They depend on the UV applications used.
In addition, UV purification systems allow for a higher level of water disinfection. This provides a safe solution against chlorine-resistant microorganisms such as :
- Giardia
- Cryptosporidium.
Benefits of UV disinfection
Water treatment by UV disinfection has many advantages:
- It is a non-chemical treatment, meaning that no harmful chemicals need to be added.
- It is easy to install and maintain.
- Economical and energy efficient: low power requirements
- It is effective on a wide range of pathogens, including those resistant to chlorination (certain protozoa such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia).
- It is recognized by regulatory agencies, including the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).
- it presents an effective treatment – it destroys 99,99% of microorganisms
- It is an ecological technology. UV contains no disinfection by-products
- Reliable – works day and night, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
- Safe for users – no chemical handling.
- Cost effective – only the lamp and sleeve are replaced each year.
- Compact and fast treatment – water flows through the system without the need for a holding tank or reaction time.
- More effective than chlorine or chloramines
- Technology approved by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration in the USA) and ÖNORM in Europe
- Conserves water, in other words, the UV purification process does not waste water.
- Taste and odor – Chemical disinfection methods (such as chlorine) change the taste and odor of water and produce by-products. This is not the case with UV.
Disadvantages
Although the initial cost of some UV applications is somewhat higher than chlorination, the low operating costs allow for a quick return on investment.
However, this process is not recommended in certain cases:
- UV light can only eliminate the micro-organisms present in the water. In fact, UV technology does not remove any other contaminants from the water such as :
- heavy metals
- salts
- Chlorine
- artificial substances such as petroleum or pharmaceutical products. In addition, other filtration methods should be used with UV to ensure that all contaminants are removed from the water.
- If the water is cloudy, a pre-filter should be used. Indeed, UV light can only work if the water is clear.
- UV water systems require electricity to operate. A UV may not be suitable for all applications such as emergency or survival needs if electricity is not available.
- UV disinfection does not offer the persistence of some other chemicals.
Here are some UV disinfection reactors. Each device is designed for a specific water quality (salt water, swimming pool, industrial treatment…).
So there is bound to be a model for your application!
And if you’re wondering how it works, you can check out the general section on UVC water disinfection and the one explaining how it works.
-
UV disinfection for water
UV disinfection -
UV disinfection for corrosive water
UV disinfection