The technology of UV disinfection uses a translucent lamp that emits UV radiation which is created inside the lamp by an arc between the two filaments of the lamp. This electronic arc is vaporizing a bead of mercury inside the lamp, and once the mercury is used up, the lamp will only shine blueish, but not emit UV rays any more so it will have to be replaced. Our UV lamps are rated for a lifetime of 11,000 hours, which is a bit more than 1 year for a light that is on all the time 24/7/365.

Not every household is the same, so we have to look at a few parameters that determine the size of the whole home water tratment system:

1) Flow rate
2) Square footage
3) People living in the house

Once you have calculated the house flow rate requirements, go by this table to pick the proper whole home water treatment system for your household:

- Smaller household of up to 3 people, under 2000 sq.ft., up to 4 GPM: We recommend the SYS250-POU.

- Average medium household of up to 6 people, 2000 - 3000 sq. ft., up to 8 GPM: We recommend the SYS700-POU.

- Larger household of up to 10 people, over 3000 sq.ft., up to 14 GPM: We recommend the SYS1400-POU or SYS3000-POU.

Filter change frequency can be quite subjective and depends on how much work the filters are required to do (what is the relative quality of your water source?). Whole home UV systems will require new filters at least twice a year and more frequently, if the water is of questionable quality and clarity. Carbon filters should be changed if and when you notice a change in taste or odor in the water, and changed more frequently if you have additional concerns such as chlorine and other contaminants.

The lifespan of the water treatment system is varied. The filter housings are said to have a lifetime of 5-7 years by the manufacturer, which is low by our experience. We have customers with 30 year old systems that still work well. The UV part of the system has a lifespan of at least 1 generation.