The occurrence of respiratory illness among the general population is on the rise. One of the primary reasons for the growing problem with respiratory illness is an increase of airborne environmental pollution.

There is a direct relationship between the amount of pollution present in the air and the levels of pollutants that find their way into our homes. Some studies have indicated that home environments tend to be even more saturated with airborne pollutants that the outdoor environment.

By placing an air purifier in your home, you can reduce the presence of harmful contaminants in the air of your home. There are numerous makes and models of air purifiers available on the market today. Each different type of air purifier functions differently, and uses unique techniques for purifying the air.

One of the most effective air purifiers available today is the ultraviolet air purifier. Ultraviolet air purifiers are able to significantly reduce contaminants in the air with the use of ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet air purifiers reduce pollutants in your home environment through the process of photochemistry. The photochemistry process transforms molecules of both water and oxygen into hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide and ozone.

The primary advantage of an ultraviolet air purifier is the fact that the airborne pollutants in your home are destroyed. Ultraviolet air filters are effective for destroying mold, viruses, bacteria, fungi, dust mite excrement, animal and human hair, pet dander and other microorganisms. What this means for you is that you will be likely to experience fewer problems with inhalant allergies and respiratory illnesses if you go with an ultraviolet air purifier.

The best ultraviolet air purifiers use ultraviolet lighting that ranges from a 185 nm low intensity wavelength to a 250 nm high intensity wavelength. The low intensity wavelengths help lower ozone formation. The high intensity wavelengths offer the most intense air cleaning capabilities because they are able to increase the production of hydroxyl. It is very important to go with an ultraviolet air purifier that does use both high and low intensity wavelengths.

One caution to keep in mind when selecting an ultraviolet air filter is to choose a unit that uses a high wattage ultraviolet bulb. It is also beneficial to remember to take care of the ultraviolet bulb in your ultraviolet air purifier unit. Because the ultraviolet light actually destroys airborne contaminants and doesn’t filter them out, proper care of the bulb is necessary to maintain its highest wattage capability. Also keep in mind that the ultraviolet bulb in your unit is in continuous use, and so it is likely to need replaced fairly regularly. It is a good idea to keep an extra bulb on hand so that you can always keep your ultraviolet air purifier unit in functional condition.