A UV water filter is an excellent choice for people who want to purify their drinking water and reduce their carbon footprint. In this article, we will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of installing one, as well as how much they cost. You will also learn about installation and how to handle any leaks. Depending on the model, UV filters are a great DIY project. Just make sure you have basic DIY knowledge to ensure the best results.
Disadvantages
There are a few disadvantages of UV water filters. These systems require electricity to operate and cannot handle water with a higher TDS limit. Furthermore, there is no built-in tank to store the water, and they run on electricity, which means they cannot produce filtered water during a power outage. This is why UV water filters are not recommended for homes with hard water, as these water sources will need a more thorough treatment.
Although municipal water suppliers take great pains to ensure their water is free of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, they cannot guarantee a 99% purity level. Even if municipal water supplies are tested annually, a small number of chlorine-resistant microorganisms may find their way into home wells. These contaminants are responsible for thousands of documented cases each year. Nevertheless, the low cost of running a UV system makes it a worthwhile investment, and the operating costs will soon pay for themselves.
Another major disadvantage of using a UV water purification system is that the UV rays cannot penetrate murky water. Sediment particles can block the light from reaching microorganisms, and this can make it difficult for the UV to perform its task. To counter this issue, it is recommended that users use a sediment pre-filter that is five microns in size. But even if a pre-filter does not remove these sediments completely, it will not be as effective as a UV filter can.
Costs
While most UV water filter systems don’t require professional installation, you may want to do some research before you buy one. Some systems require a hole to be cut in a countertop, and whole house UV systems require extensive plumbing at the main water supply. Regardless of which model you choose, it’s best to hire a professional installer to avoid damaging the filter elements and ensure proper installation. Professional installation also speeds up the process, but may be more costly than attempting to install the system yourself.
The most common types of UV water filters cost $100 to $300, depending on the model and quality. Point-of-entry UV water filters, on the other hand, are more expensive than point-of-use models. The installation costs $100 to $2,000, depending on the type of system you choose and the complexity of your plumbing system. Buying a point-of-use UV water filter, however, should cost under $300.
The UV light used by a UV water filter is effective at destroying harmful microorganisms in water. This germicidal light destroys the nucleic acids in the DNA of living microorganisms, severely impeding their reproduction. The process also prevents harmful contaminants such as chemicals, pesticides, and bacteria from surviving. With this technology, UV water filters are the most cost-effective way to ensure safe water quality and a healthy home.
Installation
To install a UV water filter, you will need to mount a piece of plywood to the wall. A GFCI outlet will provide power to the unit. The next step is to install the UV chamber by sliding it into the bracket. Once the UV chamber is in place, screw the clamps onto the bottom of the unit. Next, connect the UV system to the water supply using copper plumbing and secure the UV lamp harness. If necessary, run a hose from the UV chamber to the main water line.
Once the UV equipment is installed, install a 5-um sediment filter upstream of the UV system. The sediment prevents larger particles from reaching the UV chamber, which can shield pathogens from UV light. Another feature of UV equipment is an intensity sensor. This sensor monitors the amount of UV light that passes through the water. The sensor can also be connected to an alarm system, which shuts off water when the UV light reaches an unhealthy level.
The UV water purifier can be installed in different locations in the home. The optimal location for a whole-house UV water filter is in the kitchen, while point-of-use filters can be installed in any sink. Once installed, a UV water purifier will help improve the water quality before reaching the ultraviolet filter and reduce the chances of shielding against microorganisms. After installation, make sure you have enough space to properly maintain your UV system.