Mar 16, 20223 min read

A BASIC GUIDE: UVC WATER DISINFECTION IN WATER COOLERS

Introduction

Whether it be from a tap or a cooler, drinking water endures a disinfection process before consumption. Water is food and needs to be protected to adhere to the hygiene standards that we have become accustomed to today. One of the ways in which your water is maintained is through the use of UVC filters.

UVC light has a significant disinfection effect on bacteria and viruses, leading to widespread attention for how it helps combat the spread of coronavirus and other pathogens. UVC water filters have been studied and approved by water regulation governments, and have been in place for a while now. DEFRA (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) published a study into UV as a means of disinfecting water, stating that

"Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection has been used for many years on both public and private supplies. If properly designed and maintained, UV disinfection will inactivate harmful microorganisms ensuring that water is safe to drink" (DEFRA, 2015)

As the name suggests, these devices utilise UVC waves to neutralise any harmful substances that may be in the water. Traditionally this has been in the form of UV lamps, but technological advancements have caused us to re-think how we use UV to filter our water.

Traditional UVC Lamps vs UVC LED

Using UVC light to disinfect your drinking water has long been a chemical-free, and environmentally acceptable way for destroying germs and bacteria. Traditional UVC lamps used to disinfect water, have been around for a long time, but they are now being phased out in favour of more advanced LEDs.

In the same way that LEDs have revolutionised the display and lighting industries, UVC LED technology is providing new, improved, and expanded solutions in water treatment. LED UVC virus & bacteria reduction such as the KLARAN UVC LED unit is the next generation of chemical-free water disinfection. Evolving the water treatment process to reach an affordable, effective, and sustainable solution.

But what does this have to do with your water cooler? What are the differences and benefits of UVC LEDs over standard UV lamps?

Using LED filters eliminates the need for traditional UV lamps. Traditional UV lamps contain mercury, which is a recognised harmful substance and has a finite lifespan. This means that they need to be replaced more frequently at a cost and impacts the environment.
The LED solution offered through devices such as the KLARAN UVC LED not only contains ZERO mercury, but also boasts a far superior lifespan. LED’s last at least 10x longer than traditional UV lamps. Not only is this good news for your cooler, but it is also good for the environment by reducing waste and the number of vans on the road.
Did you know? LED lights also produce a consistent beam of energy which can’t be matched by a traditional UVC mercury lamp, helping to further ensure your water remains pure.

(Please see the easy to read table for further information. This document can be downloaded)

Ultra-effective, Ultra-violet Water Filtration

Operating at the point of dispense, the KLARAN UVC LED filter is the most effective water purifying device we have to offer. As the water flows from the tank through to the dispensing tap, it is funnelled through the KLARAN device first.

As the water passes through the filter, the LED lights emit a powerful UVC wave that effectively destroys any bacteria that could be in the water. UVC waves have been proven to remove 99.9% of all bacteria, including E Coli, pseudomonas and more.

Why Is It Important

The use of UV filtration can be found at all levels of water treatment. Not only is it known to be an effective way to eliminate the dangers of bacteria and viruses, it does so without tainting the water with harsh chemicals.

These filters are not only used in office settings but have also been implemented by hospitals. Highlighting the high level of security that UV water filters offer and how successful they are.

UV is so successful in fact, that it isn’t just used to purify water. UVC is also used in air sterilisation systems. Used in HVAC systems, they sterilise the air as it passes through while also preventing mould and mildew on cooling coils. UV air sterilisation systems can be used just about anywhere and are especially helpful in public places like hospitals, schools, libraries, and airports.

Conclusion

So hopefully now you understand the differences and benefits of having a UVC LED filter and can make an informed decision on if it’s something you want to invest in for your water supply. Whilst traditional UVC lamps are an effective means of purifying your water, the KLARAN UVC LED filter is far superior. Saving you time and money whilst also providing a more thorough service.

If you want find out if you can get UVC LED installed into your cooler, get in touch now. All helpful links have been listed below.