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Discover the benefits, working, and key differences between UV and UF water purifiers. Choose the best UV UF water purifier for your home with this complete guide.
Factor: 70% of waterborne diseases in India can be prevented by using a good water purifier.
Clean drinking water is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. In India, where water contamination levels can vary by location and source, having a reliable water purification system is critical for protecting your family’s health. While RO (Reverse Osmosis) systems are common, there is a growing demand for UV UF water purifiers. These systems are more affordable, efficient, and suitable for areas where TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) levels in water are low.
This blog will explain what a UV UF water purifier is, how it works, when to use it, and why it might be the right choice for your home.
A UV UF water purifier is a water filtration system that uses both Ultraviolet (UV) light and Ultrafiltration (UF) membrane technology to purify water. It does not use the RO (Reverse Osmosis) process, meaning it retains essential minerals in water and doesn't waste water like RO systems.
UV technology is used to kill bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms present in water. A UV lamp emits rays that destroy the DNA of harmful pathogens, making them inactive and harmless.
UF uses a hollow fiber membrane to physically filter out impurities such as dirt, sediments, cysts, and some bacteria. It does not require electricity and works purely on pressure.
The UV process works by allowing water to pass through a UV chamber where a UV lamp emits rays at a wavelength of 254 nm. These rays target the DNA of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. The UV radiation disables their ability to reproduce, effectively neutralizing them.
Kills 99.99% of microorganisms
Requires electricity
No change in water taste or color
Does not remove dissolved solids
Ultrafiltration is a physical process where water flows through a semi-permeable membrane that blocks large particles. The UF membrane has pores as small as 0.01 microns, which can trap sediments, suspended solids, and bacteria, but not dissolved salts or chemicals.
Does not need electricity
Ideal for tap water or low TDS water
Retains essential minerals
Blocks large pathogens and impurities
Here’s a quick comparison to understand when and why to choose UV, UF, or both:
Feature | UV Purifier | UF Purifier |
---|---|---|
Power Required | Yes | No |
Removes Bacteria/Viruses | Yes | Yes (partially) |
Removes Chemicals | No | No |
Removes Dissolved Solids | No | No |
Suitable for | Municipal tap water | Tap or tank water |
Maintenance | Medium | Low |
Conclusion:
A UV UF water purifier combines the strengths of both technologies, making it perfect for homes that receive municipal or low TDS water. It purifies water effectively without losing minerals or wasting water.
Retains Essential Minerals
Unlike RO systems that strip away minerals, UV UF purifiers keep calcium, magnesium, and other natural minerals intact.
No Water Wastage
RO purifiers waste 2–3 liters for every 1 liter of purified water. UV UF purifiers do not waste any water.
Lower Maintenance Cost
Without RO membranes or storage tanks (in some models), maintenance is simple and affordable.
Electricity Efficient
UF does not require power. UV uses minimal electricity.
Ideal for Urban Homes
Most UV UF models are compact, easy to install, and suited for kitchen wall mounting.
Not Suitable for High TDS Water
UV UF purifiers cannot remove dissolved salts or heavy metals. For borewell or salty water, an RO system is required.
Needs Clear Water Input
Highly muddy or turbid water can clog UF membranes quickly and reduce efficiency.
UV Needs Electricity
In areas with frequent power cuts, UV purification might not always work.
When selecting the best UV UF water purifier in India, consider the following:
Storage Capacity: Some UV UF purifiers come with a storage tank for continuous supply.
Brand & Warranty: Stick to trusted brands like Kent, Livpure, HUL Pureit, Aquaguard, or Nexon Flow Life.
Filter Life: Choose filters with long durability (at least 6 months–1 year).
Design: Prefer wall-mounted compact designs for urban kitchens.
AMC & Support: Ensure the brand offers reliable service and easy spare part availability.
7-stage filtration
UV LED + UF membrane
Transparent tank
Wall mount + table top support
Suitable for 200–300 TDS level water
Know Your Water Source
Use TDS meter to check TDS level. If it's under 300, UV UF is sufficient.
Storage or Non-Storage?
If you need water during power cuts, go for storage models.
Filter Change Indicators
Smart purifiers notify when it’s time to replace filters—choose one with indicators.
Tank Material
Ensure food-grade ABS plastic or stainless steel tank for hygiene.
Price Range
A good UV UF purifier ranges between ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 in India.
If your home receives low TDS water from municipal supply or tankers, a UV UF water purifier is a cost-effective, low-maintenance, and efficient solution. It ensures protection from viruses and bacteria without wasting water or removing essential minerals. It’s ideal for small families, rented apartments, and health-conscious buyers who prefer minimal intervention.
Q1. Is UV UF better than RO?
Not better—just different. UV UF is great for low TDS water. RO is needed for high TDS water.
Q2. Can I use UV UF for borewell water?
No. Borewell water usually has high TDS and requires RO purification.
Q3. What is the maintenance cost of a UV UF purifier?
Typically between ₹500 to ₹1500 annually depending on the brand.
Q4. Is UV UF water safe to drink?
Yes, provided your source water has acceptable TDS levels and the filters are maintained regularly.
Q5. Does UV UF purifier change the taste of water?
No. Since it doesn’t remove minerals or add chemicals, the taste remains natural