What are the different home water filtration devices for Microbial Treatment?

According to the State of Energy Report (2015), the demand for water grew largely at a rate of 35.8 percent from 2008 to 201 in Dubai. The city of Dubai gets its drinking water from two main sources– desalination plants and groundwater wells. Although the water quality leaving the plant is good and as per the drinking water standards, there are several factors resulting in bacteriological contamination of tap water. The concentration of disinfectants such as chlorine tend to reduce in the distribution system. Inadequate concentration of disinfectants can elevate biofilm or microbial production. The pipe network for the water distribution system in Dubai is mainly composed of plastic or PVC/PE (Polyvinyl Chloride, Polyethylene). Several studies have concluded that plastic pipes enhance the concentration of biofilm production and thus facilitate growth of bacteria such as Legionella. Another factor contributing to Legionella and other bacterial growth is high temperatures that are prevalent in Dubai. Temperatures between 35°C and 46°C are ideal for Legionella growth. Temperatures in Dubai have arisen to as high as 50 °C in 2019. Rust (iron), scale, and other microorganisms can also promote Legionella growth. 

This article discusses the whole house ultraviolet treatment systems by Pelican Water – PUV-8 and PUV-16. These systems are NSF certified to remove microbial waterborne pathogenic organisms causing illness. Pelican UV systems kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens by preventing them from reproducing. 

Working Principle

Ultraviolet (UV) light treatment process involves inactivation of drinking water pathogens or the oxidation of micropollutants. During the oxidation process, it is commonly used in combination with hydrogen peroxide as a part of an advanced oxidation process. UV disinfection or oxidation is a physical process that utilizes UV light and does not require use of any chemicals. This technology is very effective for germicidal properties mainly inactivating microorganisms (i.e. bacteria, viruses, algae, etc.) including chlorine-resistant pathogens, such as Cryptosporidium.  Because of safety issues associated with the reliance of chlorination and improvement in the UV technology, UV has experienced increased acceptance in both municipal and household drinking water treatment systems

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION – PELICAN UV SYSTEMS – PUV-8 and PUV-16

The Pelican UV systems come in two different flow rates – 8 and 16 gpm. Some of the features of this system are listed as follows:

  • 9-16 GPM peak flow – Ideal for most homes
  • Does not affect taste, color, and odor of the water
  • Capable of destroying 99.9% of harmful microorganisms including: E. coli, Cryptosporidium and Giardia
  • Easy to maintain
  • Safer disinfection process without the use of harmful chemicals
  • No disinfection by-products
  • Fast acting
  • Effective against a broader range of organisms than chlorine
  • Best warranty on the market

The model specifications for PUV-8 and PUV-16 are summarized in table below:

Saniwater can help address the questions and concerns of their customers pertaining to the UV treatment system from PENTAIR: PELICAN manufacturers. They provide excellent customer service. The specialized and highly trained staff of technicians will not only help install the recommended product but also help troubleshoot if necessary.

REFERENCES

  1. https://www.thenational.ae/uae/water-filters-offer-alternative-for-those-who-won-t-drink-from-the-tap-or-plastic-bottles-1.53331
  2. https://www.thenational.ae/uae/environment/the-many-myths-of-the-uae-s-tap-water-1.15502
  3. https://www.export.gov/article?id=United-Arab-Emirates-Water
  4. http://www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/water-quality/water-filters-testing-treatment/contaminant-reduction-claims-guide
  5. http://www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/water-quality/water-filters-testing-treatment/home-water-treatment-system-selection
  6. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/home-water treatment/household_water_treatment.html
  7. https://iaspub.epa.gov/tdb/pages/treatment/treatmentOverview.do?treatmentProcessId=-2054608628#:~:text=UV%20disinfection%20or%20oxidation%20is,resistant%20pathogens%2C%20such%20as%20Cryptosporidium.
  8. https://www.water-research.net/index.php/water-treatment/water-disinfection/uv-disinfection  

Meet our Expert

Abhiram Satyadev has a Masters in Environmental Engineering at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, an MBA at Goldey Beacom College in Delaware, and a Masters Certificate in Standford University. He is currently the Program Manager, Potomac Interceptor for the DC Water in Washington DC. He is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the Potomac Interceptor Renewal Facility specifically including operation and maintenance of odor control facilities at the Potomac Interceptor Sites and Pump Stations.

With Saniwater, he serves as our Research and Development Consultant and provides us with insights into his expertise. Read his section here on www.saniwater.com to know more.