6 Best Ultraviolet Water Purifier Reviews (Updated 2023)

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Every home suffering from or susceptible to contaminated water should use or add an ultraviolet (UV) water purification system. Take it up a notch. Before the water even reaches the in-sink filtration system or the shower and dishwasher, add a UV water purifier to the home’s existing water system to prevent mineral binding and scaling in the water pipes. Take action to increase the reduction of lead and mercury. For all water uses in the home consider an ultraviolet light water purifier for safe, disinfected, uncontaminated water. And improved health! These systems are proven to eliminate up to 99.9% of the unhealthy, water-borne, illness causing bacteria and germs.

What is the best ultraviolet water purifier to buy in 2023? Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter System w/ UV Purifier & Salt-Free Descaler. After the water moves through its four filter processes, it enters the ultraviolet light water purifier. UV rays distribute evenly then deliver the water into the home. Aquasana also eliminates 97% of chlorine. Too much exposure to over-chlorinated water can cause irritation and burning sensations to the skin.

We’ve researched and determined the six top-rated ultraviolet water purifiers, as well as one product we found not as effective which you may want to avoid.

Reviews of the 6 Best Ultraviolet Water Purifier, Plus 1 to Avoid

1. Aquasana WH-WELL-UV Rhino Well Water with UV Review

Aquasana Eq Well Uv Pro Ast Whole House Well Water Filter System Uv Purifier And Salt Free Descaler Review

(updated Feb 2024) Aquasana’s tagline is “Pure Performance.” To achieve 5 years or 500,000 gallons of water purification performance this Rhino Well Water System with ultraviolet light water purifier uses a unique two-tank design. It’s a hefty whole house water filtration system at 115 pounds, and a water flow rate of 7 gallons per minute (GPM). The Scale Control Media Technology (SCM) guarantees naturally conditioned, salt-free water. One tank uses an activated charcoal filter. The second filter conditions the water salt-free. Specifically designed pre- and post- sediment filters bookend the charcoal and salt-free tanks.

Aquasana preventative benefits include significant-to-complete reduction of iron, no scaling in water pipes, shower heads and kitchen sink faucets. Dishwashers and washing machines stay sparking clean. The Aquasana proprietary salt-free tank eliminates the cost, cumbersome transport of water-softening salts and removes high levels of sodium from the water. Salt-free water systems also don’t require a costly wastewater drainage system.

To watch the Aquasana EQ-WELL-UV-PRO-AST Whole House Well Water Filter System UV Purifier and Salt-Free Descaler Review on YouTube, click here (previous model).

Pros:

  • Innovative Scale Control Media (SCM) technology
  • Salt-free filtration and no wastewater drainage
  • Benefits public water systems
  • 500,000 gallon or 5 year purification

Cons:

  • Cost – upwards of $2,000 for online orders/delivery
  • Some important parts NOT included with system purchase
  • Sediment filter replacement every 1 – 3 months
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2. HQUA-OWS-12 Ultraviolet Water Purifier Sterilizer Filter Review

Hqua Ows 12 Ultraviolet Water Purifier Sterilizer Filter Review

Simply put, the HQUA-OWS-12 is for any consumer looking for an easy, inexpensive, no-fuss ultraviolet light water purifier. Quick and efficient water purification degrades and destroys harmful micro-organism DNA. As the water runs through the stainless steel tube, called the reactor chamber it is disinfected and sent through the home’s water system and pipes clean, purified and safe. Every microbe gets a “lethal” dose of UV light.

With it’s super-simple installation process, practically no maintenance outside of a yearly check-in, and absolutely no chemical additives, the HQUA-OWS-12 Ultraviolet Water Purifier Sterilizer installs to become a permanent part of the home’s water system. Simply replace the UV lamp annually. For an additional purchase, consider the 365 countdown timer which attaches to the unit and indicates exactly to the day when the UV bulb needs replacing. The green and red lights built into the electronic ballast power box indicate when the purifier is working properly and when it has failed.

Stable and durable stainless steel construction. Tubing that houses the UV lamp is equal to the grade of steel used in food industry and medical fields. The non-corrosive metal ensures a fool-proof water purifying system. HQUA-OWS-12 weighs in at 7 pounds, uses the voltage of a table lamp and less than the wattage of a 60 light bulb. No batteries required.

This tiny system has the robust flow rate of 12 GPM. This UV water purifier is no-fuss and arrives at a fraction of the cost of single and multi-chamber filtration UV water purifier systems. Important warnings from the manufacturer are paramount to using the UV water purifier successfully and are backed up by many consumer reviews.

To watch the HQUA-OWS-12 Ultraviolet Water Purifier Sterilizer Filter Review on YouTube, click here.

Pros:

  • Simple, effective no hassle installation
  • Performance
  • Construction of quality non-corrosive materials

Cons:

  • (Warning) 4 hour no water flow / hot water warning purge
  • Optional 5 gallon hot water off-set tank installation
  • Cost of bi-annual cleaning/replacement of quartz sleeve and UV bulb for year-round seasonal treatment
  • (Warning) Costly pre-treatment water levels prior to installation
  • Intense light exposure warning
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3. Express Water Alkaline Ultraviolet Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System Review

Express Water Alkaline Ultraviolet Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System Review

At first glance, the Express Water Alkaline Ultraviolet Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System, which boasts a staggering 11 stage purifier, with multiple acronym scientific table of the elements-style, color-coded chambers comes across as intimidating. The journey the water experiences on its way to purity is scientifically astounding. Express introduces Active Mineral Technology – balances calcium, potassium and magnesium, working as a mineral filter additive.

A sediment filter at stage 1 removes, dust, rust, dirt and sand. Two stages of carbon come next and work diligently to remove chlorine, chemicals and odors. Stage 4 works like a crime fighter, tackling the toughest of water’s enemies: lead, arsenic, radium and chromium, a dangerous human carcinogen which wreaks havoc on the lungs.

Stages 5 – 9 act as alkaline filters, adding oxygen, antioxidants and minerals. At stage 10 the water passes along the ultraviolet sterilizer. Everything from E. coli to parasites, bacteria and microorganisms are 99.9% eradicated. The secret living above the UV filter is the coconut carbon filter. This last chamber works to ensure the freshest, purest water before it enters the home and comes in contact with appliances and showers and water glasses.

Express Ultraviolet water purifying systems are easy to install, don’t break the bank as filters are double-sealed and inexpensive and only need changing once or twice a year. And everything is color-coded, so it’s impossible to make a mistake. All connector parts are made with quality metals, including copper. A leak-stop valve ensures the system won’t overflow when excess water is detected. This system efficiently produces 100 gallons of fresh drinkable water per day. It also features a 4 gallon water storage tank. All the materials that make up the Express are BPA free.

To watch the Express Water Alkaline Ultraviolet Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System Review on YouTube, click here.

Pros:

  • Easy installation
  • Color-coded filters and chambers for easy replacement
  • Reverse osmosis 5 mineral filtration
  • Removes fungi, mold, and viruses

Cons:

  • Water testing results inconsistent
  • Too many parts
  • Cost, time management and understanding filter replacement
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4. iSpring UVF55 55W Whole House UV Water Purifier Review

Ispring Uvf55 55w Whole House Uv Water Purifier Review

Styled much like the HQUA-OWS-12, iSpring’s sleek tubular 3-piece design is easy to install and the perfect compliment to the home’s water filtration system. This 7lb purifier is solid stainless steel which provides rust-proof protection. Two (2) hanging brackets are included for easy installation and removal.

The iSpring speaks to reliability and the product asks the consumer to trust their UV water purifier, “[to] remove risks unable to be addressed by your municipal treatment plant.” A big claim the other UV water purifiers in this review don’t petition. The entire system is chemical-free, saves energy, and is 100% environmentally friendly.

With 9,000 hours of UV bulb life and a water flow rate of 12 GPM, the iSpring UVF55 55W is compact, but mighty. Life-time tech support, extended product warranty AND a 30-day money back guarantee stand behind this system if the purifier doesn’t improve the home’s water table and taste.

To watch the iSpring UVF55 55W Whole House UV Water Purifier Review on YouTube, click here.

Pros:

  • Easy installation
  • Cleaner, fresh, softer, odorless water
  • Company warranty, replacement parts/bulbs

Cons:

  • Ballast (electrical) must be plugged into a surge protector
  • Ballast failure after 6 months or less
  • Multiple professional service/repair calls
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5. Bluonics 110W UV Ultraviolet Sediment Carbon Well Water Filter Purifier System Review

Bluonics 110w Uv Ultraviolet Sediment Carbon Well Water Filter Purifier System Review

Bluonics 110W UV 3 chamber system works to purify water in 3 distinct stages. It differs from other ultraviolet water purifiers as it works with 2 UV bulbs. Stage one brings the water through a 5 Micron Sediment Filter. Anything related to sand, dirt, dust, rust are removed at this stage.

Microns are approximately .00004 inches, or one millionth of a meter. A lot of water moving through very tightly packed spaces. The Bluonics system flow rate is impressive at 24 GPM. The sediment process prepares the water to run more efficiently and effectively through Stage 2. When the water is sediment-free, Stage 2 introduces the water to a 5 Micron Carbon Block Filter.

Carbon is the powerhouse that removes chemicals, additives, and bad taste and odor. The final pass through Stage 3 is Bluonics powerful ultraviolet light. This process sterilizes the water and removes bacteria, most notably E. coli and Giardia and many other contaminants.

Many outdoor enthusiasts and consumers living near or off the grid appreciate the double UV light technology and have established Bluonics as a staple UV water purifier in wilderness homes and cabins to combat animal feces and urine collection in private well water sources which grow E. coli and other harmful bacterias.

To watch the Bluonics 110W UV Ultraviolet Sediment Carbon Well Water Filter Purifier System Review on YouTube, click here.

Pros:

  • 2 UV bulbs
  • Effective 3 chamber filtering system
  • Sturdy and durable for remote locations

Cons:

  • Confusing instruction booklet
  • Required professional installation
  • Consumers reported leakage at tubing connections
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6. Bluonics 4 Stage Water Filter UV Light Purifier for Bacteria Under Sink Filtration System Review

Bluonics 4 Stage Water Filter Uv Light Purifier For Bacteria Under Sink Filtration System Review

This compact Bluonics 4 Stage ultraviolet water purifier fits under the kitchen sink, using a 3 chamber filtratration system, with the UV light purifier acting as the 4th chamber and last point of contact as the water enters the faucet.

At 12 pounds and dimensionally smaller than a full-sized laptop, it works just as hard as the Bluonics larger UV water purifiers. It’s small enough to use in RVs, boats, office break rooms and mobile homes. 1 sediment filter removes dirt and sand while two additional carbon-based chambers work to eliminate bacteria and germs.

Although this affordable and portable filtration system is best for smaller home water systems and work best under the sink, it isn’t the best for long term water filtration solutions. Consider purchasing this unit as a back-up system for emergency preparedness or when the home’s main filtration system fails or needs repairs.

To watch the Bluonics 4 Stage Water Filter UV Light Purifier for Bacteria Under Sink Filtration System Review on YouTube, click here.

Pros:

  • Compact and portable
  • 4 chamber filtration system
  • Easy installation

Cons:

  • Not recommended for long-term use
  • Some filtration parts are not universal
  • Ill-fitting parts cause leakage
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Avoid – Boeray 25W 6 GPM Ultraviolet Light Water Purifier Whole House Purification Review

Boeray 25w 6 Gpm Ultraviolet Light Water Purifier Whole House Purification Review

The Boeray 25W 6 GPM Ultraviolet Light Water Purifier packs a punch. While its working diligently to purify water it’s removing 99.9% of fungi, bacteria, E. coli, Algae, Cysts, Microorganisms, Dust, Rust and Silt. Constructed of 1005 food grade stainless steel, the Boeray delivers pure, clean safe drinking water to every part of the home. Moving water at 6 GPM, this high flow rate assure quality performance and consistent purification.

The system keeps the water completely odorless, colorless and maintains pH and consistent conductivity – a steady electric current which measures what is dissolved in the water, such as the common ions: magnesium, chlorine, and calcium. An impressive inventory includes a system that weighs less than 6 pounds, houses 3 UV lamps, 2 quartz sleeves, and a double ballast, making this one unique and hardworking ultraviolet water filtration system.

To keep it all running efficiently, the ballast harnesses both an audible and visual alarm; two reminders to check the bulb for replacement, filtration system failure and an alert when the quartz sleeves need cleaned. The Boeray is super easy to install and comes with detailed installation instructions and a full 1 year warranty. And the company backs up the product with a free exchange of any defective parts as part of that warranty.

Although it does have many positives, it does not remove chlorine from water and requires extra filtration systems to be truly effective. For these reason, we would recommend avoiding this ultraviolet water purifier.

To watch the Boeray 25W 6 GPM Ultraviolet Light Water Purifier Whole House Purification Review on YouTube, click here.

Pros:

  • Health benefits
  • Unique and specially formulated

Cons:

  • Can cost up to 5x more than sodium-based water softening pellets
  • Must use 3x more product
  • Doesn’t remove chlorine from the water
  • Require an additional costly filtration system
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Buyers Guide to the Best Ultraviolet Water Purifier

The day isn’t going at all as planned and at every turn people are acting strange. The comment, “It must be something in the water!” comes to mind. Although this time-honored expression speaks to a humorous metaphor; in the literal sense it means that germs, unhealthy microbes and dangerous bacteria are hanging out and reproducing in the home’s water system.

Whether resistant or powerless to address the unhealthy and sometimes hazardous issues, cities and local municipalities are only required to uphold certain standards for water delivery to homes and businesses. They are not responsible for the water’s purity. Installing a water filtration system works as a first line of defense.

Prior to installation, understand how much water needs to be treated and what flow rate is best for the water being delivered to each corner of the home. A smaller system can overheat and fail if it can’t keep maintain consistent flow rate. A larger system can become a costly annual expense as many filters need changing.

Larger systems also require more part replacements and cleaning, so it’s good to be mindful by recording future cleaning and filter replacement times, or buy an additional manufacturer recommended smart-timer and let the system decide when replacement and cleanings are required. An efficient-running UV system is paramount to clean, purified water.

Light lives on a spectrum. Ultraviolet light lives between visible light which humans can see, and x-rays, used in medical practice. Black light posters glow with the use of an ultraviolet light bulb. Skin drinks in natural ultraviolet light from the sun, allowing tissues to absorb the healthy benefits of vitamin D and stay summer-bronzed. The downside of sunbathing is too much exposure to Ultraviolet light damages DNA. This damage stops healthy cells from growing, which can lead to skin cancer.

Much like exposure on the skin, ultraviolet light distributes into the water, entering the damaging DNA living in hazardous microbes and bacteria, eliminating contaminates and stopping the reproduction cycle. When used properly, with the home’s soft-water or charcoal-activated water system, attached directly into the plumbing under the sink or at the connector of the home’s water intake, an ultraviolet light water purifier is a great addition to clean and purify water, naturally and safely.

But there are a few factors to consider before installing a UV water purifier.

3 Main Points to Consider:

  • Test the water before investing in a UV filtration system / Keep the system clean – Before installing any type of filtration system, test the well water with a professional water testing kit. Most manufactures how “clean” the water should be before running it through the filters and UV light. Understand the exact cleaning and care instructions for the filtration system to keep it running efficiently. Depending on climate, run time and water table, the system may need extra maintenance.
  • Research reviews & ask questions in online forum – Consumers whose homes run on well water know the best tricks, tips and hacks. Many experiences with the UV filtration systems reviewed speak to the installation instructions not being clear, and many runs back and forth to the hardware store searching for the correct pipe fittings and o-rings.  Knowing how to install the filtration system correctly is important to avoid overheating the water, breaking the UV light bulb, system failure and paying out of pocket for a plumber or electrician to make repairs.
  • Check the warranty / Customer support – The delicate pieces that make up a UV water filtration system are expensive, and the cost to replace a system with 4 or more filters can become a time management nightmare. Shop for a water filtration system backed up by at least a one (1) year warranty and a 24/7 customer service department. Ask the company what parts are replaceable within the warranty period as some companies will send replacement pieces and UV light bulbs at no cost.

Do UV water purifiers kill viruses?

One of the best features of an ultraviolet water purifier as part of the home’s water system is it’s powerful 99.9% elimination rate of water-borne illness viruses including Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis and Flu. The intensity of the UV light rays works its way into the harmful cell’s DNA, destroying its ability to reproduce.

UV light works more powerfully than the sun, emitting 254 nanometers of ultraviolet rays. A nanometer is a unit of measurement. It equals one-billionth of a meter. Break down the measurement of the “pieces of light” radiating through the water, and that is a powerful amount of radiating UV rays working to purify. In terms of the electric charge flowing through the water to kill the virus: 1 kilowatt equals 1,000 nanometers. That amounts to a lot of electricity usage to disinft the water.

But that usage doesn’t mean a higher energy bill, since UV water filtration systems use the wattage of a 60W light bulb! Clearly, adding an ultraviolet water filtration system to kill harmful bacteria and viruses is a wise investment.

Is UV treated water safe to drink?

Ultraviolet water filtrations systems are reliable and safe. No to mention fool-proof. Water moves through the home at some point, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. UV filtration is working around the clock to keep water purity and quality at its very best. The addition of a UV filtration system isn’t just environmentally-friendly; it never requires added chemicals, and it’s virtually low-to-no sodium free solutions makes drinking water safe. Ultraviolet light water filtration is also FDA approved.

Final Thoughts on Buying a UV Water Purifier

When deciding on adding an ultraviolet water filtration system albeit under the kitchen sink or to a water filtration system already in use, first and foremost, consider the source of the water entering the home.

Call the local water municipality for important information on the water table. Get an inspection of the well or other any other water source supplying water to the home. Knowing what kind of water being treated before adding the system is key.

It’s important to understand if the UV filtration system functions better with the home’s pre-filtration or post-filtration system already in place. It doesn’t remove man-made contaminants, heavy-metals, chlorine and salts. The water entering the home must be treated and clear, not murky. Otherwise the investment made – and sometimes costly – to treat the water with UV light may cause a system failure. In the long-run, additional maintenance and calls to the plumber to reset the water table could cost more than the system itself.

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