How to Buy an Ultraviolet Water Disinfection System

A UV system destroys biological contaminants in your water.

Ultraviolet (UV) light purifies water by killing bacteria, algae, viruses and other microorganisms. As it flows through the system, water passes by UV bulbs that destroy the cells of any biological matter going by. Because it kills a wider range of organisms, UV light is more effective than chlorine and won't affect the taste or smell of your water like chlorine does. The UV light does not filter out harmful chemicals and the system is sensitive to any non-biological contaminants in your water, so a pre-filtration system must be installed prior to or purchased with your UV system.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Phone

Instructions

1. Decide whether you want all the water in your house to be purified or if you only want water at one point purified, such as in the kitchen sink. This determines what size of pre-filter and UV system you need. Whole house purifiers cost much more than single point purifiers.

2. Check that you have room for the filtration system and the UV purifier. Both systems should ideally fit where your water supply enters your house. If you only want purified water in the kitchen, however, you need space for both units to fit under your kitchen sink. You also need an electrical outlet near where the units will be installed.

3. Decide what features you want. Different models of UV purifiers offer different features. Features to choose from include an alarm that sounds when the UV bulb goes out, flow restrictors, emergency shutoff valves and UV intensity monitors. Models also differ in their maximum flow rates.

4. Research different models of UV purifiers online. Companies that manufacture UV purifiers for the home include Trojan UV Max and Sterilight. Compare the prices, sizes and features to narrow down your choice.

5. Contact a reputable plumber who has experience installing purification systems. Discuss with the plumber which system you chose and why. He will let you know if the system will fit your needs and may have other recommendations. The plumber can order the UV system for you and install it when it arrives.

Tips & Warnings

• You can order UV systems online and install them yourself, but due to the complexity of the system and need for the installation of outlets and pre-filters, it is best to contact a professional plumber for the purchase and installation.

• You must have a pre-filter for the UV system. Sediment and debris will ruin the UV purifier.

References

• Home Water Purifiers: UV Filter
• Aquatell: Differences Between UV Systems