Benefits of Using UV Water Purifiers

The wide array of water purification systems being advertised today has probably set you wondering about a suitable type and brand. The right fit could be a chemical based purifier, an RO system or one that combines UV technology with advanced filtration techniques. In this article, we’ll look at just why UV purifiers are the standard choice for many who decide to invest in domestic water purifiers.

Ultraviolet or UV water purifiers are still a very popular option in the electrical home water purifier segment. The fact that the sun’s ultra violet rays effectively neutralize biological contaminants has spawned the development of UV purification systems. It is known to be one of the most fail-safe methods of ridding water of micro organisms. UV purifiers thus guard against all water borne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, diarrhoea, amoebic dysentery and jaundice.

So should you be satisfied with a UV based water purification system? If you live in a town or city where the municipal corporation pre treats water to a certain extent before it reaches you and the water source is a river or lake, UV technology is fine. Also, TDS (total dissolved solids) levels should be lower than 500 mg per litre. UV treatment does not remove dissolved solids or add anything to the water. UV treated water retains natural minerals, some of which are essential for good health. All it does is deactivate microbes such as giardia, viruses and bacteria by altering the cell structure and rendering them incapable of reproduction. Inert micro organisms are not known to be harmful. UV purification is far more effective than chlorine, which does not destroy all micro organisms.

A lamp is used to simulate the sun’s ultra violet rays, which are then emitted in very concentrated proportions. The radiation produced by the ultra violet lamp is more intense than sunlight and effectively neutralises disease causing germs. Many UV purifiers available today combine UV technology with activated carbon or other filtration methods. UV purifiers run on electricity.

The most popular UV purifier in India today is Eureka Forbes’ Aquaguard. It sells more than any other brand in the UV water purifier segment. In 2007, global major, Philips introduced four UV based models. UV purifiers cost upwards of Rs. 5000. Philips’ UV purifiers start at around Rs. 6995. Aquaguard Classic costs around Rs. 7000.

It’s important to check about after sales service before you choose a particular brand. Many UV purification systems need servicing by professionals and this is where the vendor’s track record matters. Philips’ UV purifiers are known to be user friendly and customers may use the company helpline and try servicing the equipment themselves. Eureka Forbes, on the other hand, focuses on providing service and has a nationwide service network spanning some 500 locations across the country.

A UV purifier could be the right choice for you if the water where you live is not very turbid and salty, electricity and water supply are not erratic and if it fits your budget. As always, enquire with friends and neighbours about quality of equipment and service. You would do well to check with your retailer about warranty details. It is better to buy a system, which is adequately covered for at least the first year.