Heat pumps and PURION UVC disinfection systems: efficiency and safety in legionella control

1.) Legionella are water-living bacteria that pose a serious health threat. They thrive in warm, humid environments and can cause serious respiratory illnesses in humans, such as Legionnaires' disease. Legionella can multiply rapidly in hot water installations, such as those found in many buildings, especially if the water is not adequately disinfected. Water hygiene requirements are therefore regulated by law in many countries, and it is critical that homeowners and building operators use safe and effective water disinfection solutions.

2.) Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly method of providing hot water. They use existing heat in the environment to heat water to a comfortable temperature. However, heat pumps have a disadvantage when it comes to water disinfection: they are often unable to heat water to a temperature high enough to kill Legionella. Thermal disinfection requires temperatures of at least 60 degrees Celsius - a temperature that heat pumps can only achieve at a significant energy cost. This can negate the energy efficiency benefits of heat pumps and increase operating costs.

3.) This is where the PURION brand UVC disinfection system comes in. It provides reliable disinfection of water without the need for high hot water temperatures. The use of UV-C light ensures effective disinfection, with extremely low power consumption. PURION units can be installed directly in the circulation circuit after the hot water tank, which allows continuous disinfection of the water and makes installation simple and straightforward. In this way, the heat pump remains at its most efficient setting without sacrificing water hygiene. With their focus on quality and reliability, UV Concept GmbH's PURION UVC disinfection systems provide a safe, efficient and cost-effective solution for Legionella control.