How does UV disinfect?

Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection is a process that utilizes UV light to effectively inactivate or kill microorganisms in water. The primary mechanism through which UV disinfection operates is by damaging the nucleic acids, specifically the DNA or RNA, within the cells of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. When UV rays penetrate the microorganisms, they cause structural damage to the nucleic acids, which disrupts the microbes' ability to replicate and function. This alteration in the genetic material renders them harmless and unable to multiply, effectively reducing the pathogenic load in the water.

This method is distinct from enhancing taste, which does not involve microbial inactivation, and from filtration methods that remove larger particles rather than specifically targeting microorganisms. Additionally, UV disinfection is a physical process that does not require the addition of chemicals to the water, making it an efficient and environmentally friendly method of disinfection.