Question 1

What is UV-C technology and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

UV-C (Ultraviolet-C) is a type of ultraviolet light with wavelengths between 200-280 nanometers. It works by damaging the DNA and RNA of microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, mould spores, and other pathogens. When air passes through our UV-C units, the UV-C light disrupts the genetic material of these pathogens, preventing them from reproducing and rendering them harmless. This is a proven, chemical-free method of air sanitisation that has been used in healthcare settings for decades.

Question 2

How effective is UV-C against viruses and bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Independent laboratory testing has demonstrated that our UV-C systems can deactivate 99.9% of airborne viruses, bacteria, mould, and pollen when air passes through the unit. The Aintree University Hospital study showed significant reductions in airborne pathogens in real-world healthcare settings. Effectiveness depends on factors including air circulation, room size, pathogen type, and operating settings. UV-C is most effective against airborne transmission when used as part of a comprehensive infection control strategy.

Question 3

Is UV-C safe for occupied spaces?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our UV-C air purification units are designed for safe use in occupied spaces. The UV-C light is fully contained within the unit and does not escape into the room. Air is drawn into the unit, exposed to UV-C light in a sealed chamber, and then returned to the room. There is no direct UV-C exposure to people, animals, or materials in the space. Our units comply with all relevant safety standards and regulations for use in healthcare, educational, and commercial environments.

Question 4

What's the difference between UV-C and HEPA filtration?

Accepted Answer

UV-C and HEPA filtration work in fundamentally different ways. HEPA filters physically trap particles as air passes through dense filter material, requiring regular filter replacement and creating pressure drop that reduces airflow. UV-C technology deactivates pathogens using ultraviolet light without trapping particles, meaning no filters to replace and no reduction in airflow over time. UV-C is particularly effective against viruses and bacteria, while HEPA excels at capturing larger particles like dust and pollen. Many of our units combine both technologies for comprehensive air purification.

Question 5

How long do UV-C lamps last?

Accepted Answer

Our units use Signify UV-C lamps with an average rated lifetime of 9,000 hours under normal operating conditions. For a unit running 24/7, this equates to approximately 12 months of continuous operation. For units operating 8-12 hours per day, lamps typically last 2-3 years. UV-C effectiveness gradually decreases over the lamp's lifetime, so we recommend replacement at 9,000 hours to maintain optimal performance. We provide replacement lamps and can arrange maintenance services to ensure your system continues to operate effectively.

Question 6

Why don't you use UV-C LEDs instead of mercury lamps?

Accepted Answer

While UV-C LEDs are excellent for visible light and other spectrums, they are not yet remotely close to the energy efficiency or cost-effectiveness of mercury lamps for the specific 254nm wavelength required for germicidal applications. Mercury vapor lamps remain the industry standard because they deliver far superior UV-C output per watt at 254nm—the optimal wavelength for pathogen deactivation.

Question 7

How do you ensure consistent performance over the lamp lifetime?

Accepted Answer

Our units are deliberately over-specified with greater power than the minimum required for deactivation. This engineering approach ensures that even at 9,000 hours of operation, the lamps remain more than powerful enough to maintain specification performance, even with a small amount of dirt accumulation on the lamp surface. This over-specification provides a safety margin that guarantees consistent pathogen reduction throughout the lamp's entire rated lifetime, which is critical for healthcare and commercial applications where reliability cannot be compromised.

Question 8

Which UV-C unit is right for my space?

Accepted Answer

Product selection depends on room size, ceiling height, occupancy levels, and application. The MT250 is ideal for small to medium rooms (e.g., consultation rooms, offices). The MT500/750 suits medium to large spaces (e.g., classrooms, meeting rooms) with 500m³/h or 750m³/h configurations. The CT600 handles larger areas up to 100m² (e.g., hospital wards, open-plan offices) with ultra-quiet operation. The In-Duct Unit integrates into HVAC systems for whole-building coverage. Contact us with your room dimensions and application, and we'll recommend the optimal solution for your needs.

Question 9

Can I use UV-C units in healthcare settings?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our UV-C systems are tested and used by the NHS, including the Aintree University Hospital pathogen study. They are suitable for hospitals, GP surgeries, dental practices, care homes, and other healthcare environments. UV-C air purification is particularly valuable in healthcare settings where airborne infection control is critical. Our units operate quietly and safely in occupied patient areas, consultation rooms, waiting rooms, and treatment spaces. We can provide healthcare-specific guidance and installation services.

Question 10

Do you offer bespoke or custom solutions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide bespoke UV-C air purification solutions tailored to your specific requirements. This includes custom sizing for unusual room dimensions, integration with existing HVAC systems, multi-unit installations for large facilities, and specialised configurations for unique applications. Our technical team can conduct site surveys, perform air quality assessments, and design custom solutions. Contact us to discuss your requirements and we'll provide a detailed quotation.

Question 11

What's included with each unit?

Accepted Answer

Each unit includes the UV-C air purification system with Signify UV-C lamps pre-installed, mounting hardware (for wall/ceiling units), operating manual, warranty documentation, and technical specifications. Portable units are plug-and-play ready. Professional installation services are available separately for wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted units. Extended warranties, maintenance contracts, and replacement lamp packages can be purchased as optional extras.

Question 12

Do I need professional installation?

Accepted Answer

Professional installation is recommended for wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted units to ensure proper positioning, secure mounting, and correct electrical connection. Installation must be carried out by qualified personnel in accordance with manufacturer specifications and UK electrical safety regulations. Portable units are designed for plug-and-play operation and do not require professional installation, though proper placement is important for optimal air circulation. We can arrange professional installation services throughout the UK.

Question 13

How much maintenance do UV-C units require?

Accepted Answer

UV-C units require minimal maintenance. The primary maintenance task is replacing UV-C lamps at the end of their rated lifetime (approximately 9,000 hours of operation). We recommend tracking operating hours to schedule timely lamp replacement. External surfaces should be cleaned periodically with a soft, dry cloth. No filter replacement is required for pure UV-C units (though combination units with HEPA filters will require filter changes according to manufacturer guidelines). We offer maintenance contracts that include scheduled lamp replacement and annual servicing.

Question 14

How do I know when to replace UV-C lamps?

Accepted Answer

UV-C lamps should be replaced after 9,000 hours of operation to maintain optimal effectiveness. We recommend keeping a log of operating hours or using a simple hour meter. For units running continuously (24/7), replace lamps annually. For units operating 8-12 hours per day, replace lamps every 2-3 years. UV-C lamps may still appear to be working after 9,000 hours, but their germicidal effectiveness decreases over time. We can supply replacement lamps and provide replacement services if needed.

Question 15

What are the power requirements?

Accepted Answer

Power requirements vary by model. The MT250 operates on standard 230V AC mains power at 250W. The MT500/750 consumes 280W (2-lamp) or 400W (3-lamp). The CT600 consumes 250W. All units are designed for continuous operation and are energy-efficient compared to traditional HVAC systems. In-Duct units have variable power requirements depending on configuration. Detailed electrical specifications are provided in product documentation. Standard UK 13A sockets are suitable for all units.

Question 16

Is UV-C light dangerous to humans?

Accepted Answer

Direct exposure to UV-C light can be harmful to skin and eyes, which is why our units are designed with fully enclosed UV-C chambers. The UV-C light is completely contained within the unit and does not escape into the occupied space. Air is drawn into the unit, exposed to UV-C in a sealed chamber, and returned to the room without any UV-C exposure to people or materials. Our units comply with all relevant safety standards and are safe for continuous use in occupied spaces including homes, offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Question 17

Can UV-C damage furniture or materials?

Accepted Answer

No. Because the UV-C light is fully contained within our units and does not escape into the room, there is no UV-C exposure to furniture, fabrics, artwork, or other materials in the space. Unlike upper-room UV-C systems that emit light into the environment, our closed-chamber design ensures that only air is exposed to UV-C. Your furniture, flooring, and belongings are completely safe.

Question 18

What safety certifications do your units have?

Accepted Answer

Our UV-C units comply with relevant UK and European safety standards including electrical safety (BS EN 60335), electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and UV safety regulations. Units are designed and manufactured to meet healthcare, educational, and commercial building requirements. We hold UK Patent GB2615993B for our Flow Sanitisation Technology. Detailed certification documentation is available upon request. All units undergo rigorous testing before dispatch to ensure they meet our quality and safety standards.

Question 19

Are there any ozone emissions?

Accepted Answer

Our UV-C units use wavelengths specifically designed for germicidal effectiveness (254nm) and do not produce ozone. Some UV technologies using shorter wavelengths (below 200nm) can generate ozone as a byproduct, but our systems do not operate in this range. Our units are safe for continuous operation in occupied spaces without any ozone-related health concerns. This makes them suitable for sensitive environments including healthcare facilities, schools, and homes.

Question 20

Can I use UV-C units around children or pets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our UV-C units are safe for use in spaces occupied by children and pets. The UV-C light is fully enclosed and does not escape the unit. Units should be installed according to manufacturer guidelines to ensure they are secure and cannot be tampered with. Wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted units are positioned out of reach. Portable units should be placed in stable locations where they cannot be knocked over. Our units operate quietly and do not produce any harmful emissions, making them suitable for nurseries, schools, veterinary clinics, and homes with pets.

Question 21

How much do UV-C units cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies by model, quantity, and any customisation requirements. Standard units range from entry-level portable models to larger commercial installations. We provide competitive pricing for bulk orders and can offer package deals for multi-unit installations. For accurate pricing tailored to your specific requirements, please contact us with details of your application, room size, and quantity needed. We'll provide a detailed quotation including product costs, installation (if required), and any optional extras such as extended warranties or maintenance contracts.

Question 22

What are the ongoing costs?

Accepted Answer

The primary ongoing cost is UV-C lamp replacement approximately every 9,000 hours of operation (typically 12-36 months depending on usage). Replacement lamps are competitively priced and available directly from us. Energy costs are minimal due to the low power consumption of our units (55-165W depending on model). There are no filter replacement costs for pure UV-C units, though combination units with HEPA filters will have filter replacement costs. Optional maintenance contracts are available for scheduled servicing and lamp replacement.

Question 23

Do you offer financing or leasing options?

Accepted Answer

We can discuss financing and leasing options for larger commercial installations and multi-unit orders. Payment terms can be arranged for established businesses and public sector organisations. Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements and we'll work with you to find a suitable payment solution. We accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and can arrange purchase orders for approved customers.

Question 24

What is your delivery and installation timeframe?

Accepted Answer

Stock units are delivered within 3-7 working days of order confirmation. Non-stock units take 3-6 weeks depending on quantity and requirements. Replacement lamps and F7 filters are available from stock in limited quantities, with additional stock available within 5-10 days. Professional installation can usually be arranged within 2-3 weeks of delivery, subject to availability and location. For urgent requirements, contact us to discuss expedited delivery options.

Question 25

What warranty do you provide?

Accepted Answer

All UV-C units come with a 24-month manufacturer warranty as standard, covering manufacturing defects and workmanship from installation date. Signify UV-C lamps are warranted for 9,000 hours of operation. Extended warranty options are available for purchase. Warranties do not cover damage from misuse, unauthorised modifications, or failure to follow operating instructions. Full warranty terms and conditions are provided with each unit.

Question 26

Are these products available on a procurement framework?

Accepted Answer

Yes, MidthermUV products are available through several public sector procurement frameworks, making it easier for NHS trusts, schools, universities, and local authorities to purchase without lengthy tender processes. We are listed on frameworks including Crown Commercial Service (CCS), NHS Supply Chain, and others. These frameworks offer pre-negotiated pricing, simplified procurement, and compliance with public sector buying regulations. For full details on available frameworks, eligible organisations, and how to purchase through them, please visit our Procurement Frameworks page or contact our team for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

UV-C Technology

Product Selection

Installation & Maintenance

Safety Information

Pricing & Ordering

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