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Uses for Germicidal UV Lamps

Germicidal UV lamps are used for "ultraviolet germicidal irradiation," the killing of germs, fungus, viruses and other micro-organisms through the use of very intense light. UV light emitted from some UV lamps can be tens of thousands of times more intense than the UV light that is emitted from the sun. Ultraviolet light is light with short wavelengths that emit electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation destroys harmful micro-organisms. Germicidal UV lamps are highly effective and have a variety of uses. Water, air, and medical instruments can all be purified through the use of germicidal UV lamps.

  1. Water Purification

    • Water can be thoroughly and effectively sterilized through the use of germicidal UV lamps. UV light is increasingly being used as a means of purifying water in lieu of chlorine, which can have negative health consequences. Currently, germicidal UV lamps are used in water wells and rainwater harvesting cisterns. Germicidal UV lamps are even used for the purification of aquariums and ponds. There are even small, travel-friendly germicidal UV lamps the general public can purchase for personal use. Simply swirl the hand-held lamp in a glass of water in order to purify. In order for UV light to effective kill micro-organisms in water, the water must be clear enough for the light to penetrate. Murky, muddy, or water mixed with chemicals cannot be purified by germicidal UV lamps.

    Medical Equipment

    • Many medical instruments are sterilized using germicidal UV lamps. Medical and dental instruments are inserted into machine that contains a germicidal UV lamp, and exposed to intense UV light that is 20,000 times stronger than the UV beams emitted from the sun. The UV light kills any residual viruses, bacteria, fungi, or other harmful micro-organisms. Even medical garments, such as hospital gowns and doctors' scrubs can be sterilized using germicidal UV lamps. Some germicidal UV lamps can sterilize medical equipment in as little as six minutes.

    Air Purification

    • Air can be sterilized and purified using germicidal UV lamps. When used for air purification, germicidal UV lamps are built into "forced air systems," which means mechanical systems that literally suck in and expel air, such as a fans or air ducts. Fans push the air past germicidal UV lamps. Germicidal UV lamps are used by hospitals, but can also be purchased for home use. Germicidal UV lamps don't heat up the air, and produce only about as much heat as a fluorescent lamp.

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