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Guide to Biocide Elements

Biocide Elements - A guide to understanding UV technologies and their role in improving your air qualities.

How does it work?
Biocide Elements

UV energy emitted by the Biocide penetrates the cell walls of the microbe, causing cellular or genetic damage. The affected microbe is neutralized or becomes unable to reproduce. Intensity and exposure time will determine how quickly a susceptible microbe is disabled by UV energy.

Do I still need an air filter?

Yes. The Biocide is designed to be used in addition to a dust filter or electronic air cleaner and the filtration of dust particles will also aid in keeping the elements of the Biocide unit clean. However, filters are inefficient at dealing with microscopic bacteria, molds, and viruses and are incapable of preventing mold from growing on a surface. The Biocide system contributes significantly to the reduction of the small microbial organisms that pass through filters and into the
general air stream. Proper placement of the Biocide unit above the coil, or a surface area prone to microbial growth aids in reducing the amount of viable microbes on that surface.

How much maintenance is required on a UV energy product?

Elements should be cleaned by a professional every six (6) months to remove any dust accumulation on the elements that might lessen the effectiveness of the UV energy. The biocide elements have a service life of 9,000 hours, or approximately 375 days. Annual replacement of the elements is recommended. Biocide units should be left on continuously as turning them on and off ages the elements and power supplies.

What is UV Energy?

A Biovide uses UV Envegy. Ultraviolet energy represents the frequency of energy between 200 nanometers (nm) and 400nm and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Within the UV spectrum lie three distinct bands of energy: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. Long wave UV energy (315nm to 400nm), UV-B (280nm to 315nm), or midrange UV, causes sunburn.

Germicidal UV energy (200nm to 280nm), or UV-C, is effective in microbial control. Research has demonstrated that within this UV-C band the most efficient frequency for microbial destruction is between 254nm and 265nm. Germicidal elements that
produce the majority of their output in this range will be the most effective in microbial control/destruction.

How Can UV technologies help me?

Molds. Bacteria. Yeasts. Viruses.

These are naturally occurring contaminants that infiltrate every home and office on this planet. Micro-organisms are living creatures that are so small a microscope is required to view them. HEPA air cleaners are efficient enough to capture many molds and bacteria. But the micro-organisms remain alive, continuing to grow and reproduce directly on the filtration media. The Biocide system can significantly reduce the amount of viable airborne micro-organisms found in HVAC
units.

Indoor air can be some of the poorest quality air we experience. When we leave our windows shut, air is constantly re-circulated throughout our homes. Over time this air can become stagnant and bacteria, molds, yeasts, and viruses more concentrated. These concentrations can cause inflammation of mucous membranes, upper respiratory problems, and aggravate asthma and other breathing ailments. The biocide assists in combating high levels of these micro-organism concentrations.

Could you benefit from healthier air?

Yes. Poor indoor air quality is a problem that affects everyone. Individuals with weakened immune systems, allergies, and asthma benefit the most from improving air quality. Households with children or elderly individuals will also benefit from improved indoor air quality.

What are the primary benefits?

UV energy will significantly reduce the amount of microbials in ductwork and air space, helping to reduce possible health
problems associated with inhaling microbials. UV energy is also beneficial in keeping HVAC coils free of mold which increases system efficiency.

What is the importance of UV-C products for indoor environments?

Overall, people spend 90% of their time indoors, in a “closed” environment with little or no exchange of outside air. Such an environment can become a breeding ground for potentially harmful pathogens, and in high numbers, can prove hazardous
to human health.

How much electricity does a Biocide use ?

Each tube uses approximately the same electricity as a 40-watt bulb.