UV disinfection for residential water treatment

Remote settlements, own water sources or the inferior water quality of the local utilities make managing one’s own domestic water requirement necessary. These small amounts of water can also be disinfected in an environmentally friendly manner and effectively using WEDECO UV technology. The use of rainwater or the re-use of waste water is also possible with UV disinfection.

Microscopic organisms found in nature are summarised with the term “microorganisms”. These include above all bacteria, viruses, mould or parasites. The most effective method for rendering these organisms innocuous is disinfection using ultraviolet light. The great advantage of UV light compared to other techniques is in the environmentally friendly way in which it works. No health-endangering by-products are formed in the water and the natural taste and smell of the water is also preserved.

Ultraviolet light disinfects without chemicals

The use of chlorine and other chemical substances for the disinfection of drinking water can entail health-related and ecological disadvantages due to the formation of chemical by-products. In addition, some dangerous pathogens such as Cryptosporidium and Guardia are already very resistant to chemical disinfection techniques.

Disinfection with UV light works better: Microorganisms are inactivated by a photochemical reaction between the UV-C radiation and the genetic information carrier (DNA) of the pathogen within seconds. The pathogen can no longer multiply and dies. Since this is a purely physical technique, the pathogen types can also not become resistant to the UV-radiation.

Incorporated into the domestic water supply, UV disinfection equipment protects the entire water circulation against microorganisms. Where drinking water is obtained from own wells or springs for example, disinfection may be compellingly required.

Improve local drinking water quality

Local water utility companies use different methods for the disinfection of drinking water, including UV light and chlorine. However, contamination can re-occur in the water distribution network, particularly in the case of an insufficient infrastructure. To compensate, chlorine is added to drinking water in many regions, which leads to the formation of chlorine by-products such as chloramines.

UV disinfection works like a bouncer at the drinking water supply to the house. Any chlorine-resistant microorganisms which may be in it are destroyed by UV light in the water.

Reuse waste water and grey water - for the protection of natural resources

Especially in dry regions, the decentralised use of rainwater or the re-use of waste water is a practical measure for fighting against the rising water shortage. UV disinfection is an important component here in domestic water management. In combination with supplementary treatment methods, rainwater, waste water or grey water (slightly contaminated waste water such as shower and bath water) can be treated in such a way. The disinfected clear water which results can be reused for irrigation, as process water or for cleaning and rinsing purposes.

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