|
||||||||
|
||||||||
UV Lights Are Catching On |
||||||||
|
March 19, 2000 - UV Lights For Cleaner Air Catching On Ultraviolet light, the kind of light produced by the sun, is being used in new clean air technology now being marketed on Hilton Head Island. The UV lights are installed in heating and air condition ducts and come in portable units. Some claim the lights help prevent illness and minimize allergies by sterilizing air. Three local companies are selling the lights: Epperson and Lang's, specializing in heating and air conditioning, and Enhance-It, which sells air and water filters. The UV lights work on the same principle as sunlight, which kills viruses, bacteria, molds and other microbes by breaking down their DNA. The air must make direct contact with the bulb. Since World War II, large UV lights have been used to kill
airborne diseases in hospitals and laboratories. In the past five years, the
technology has been made smaller and more affordable for residential and
commercial use. Moorehouse said local scientists should study kill times for
the specific microbes living in the Lowcountry. Effectiveness also depends
on the power of the light, size of the room and length of exposure. Dr. Paul Long of Heritage Medical Center on Hilton Head
Island wants the clinic's board of directors to approve the addition of
air-conditioner duct UV lights. "I have no reservation about it," he said. Ben Phipps, service manager for Lang's, said customers are slowly becoming aware of the UV lights, resulting in increased demand. Both Lynn and Phipps said the lights are a partial solution, but not a cure-all, to better indoor air quality. The UV lights range in price from $499 to $595 installed. The lights need a new bulb every year. The bulbs cost $70 - $100, depending on the strength.
|
|||||||
© 2002 - 2017 |
Privacy Statement and other Policies profile | uv systems | uv science facts | press releases | links and q&a | business programscontact | login |