Several researchers have proved the effectiveness of UVC radiation from both LEDs and lamps on deactivating coronavirus for preventing the spread of COVID-19. Seoul Viosys, who experts in UV LED technology, announced a new application of installing UV LEDs in air conditioners.

Seoul Viosys partnered with Gree Electric Appliances, a Chinese air conditioner maker, to launch a new series of air conditioner products adopting Violeds UV LED technology.

(Image: Seoul Viosys)

The UV LED embedded air conditioners will provide disinfection on the surface of evaporator, as well as sterilization of any indoor airborne contaminants drawn into the air conditioner, including various harmful viruses and bacteria, ensuring that fresh air is continuously discharged. Conventional household air conditioners typically draw outside air into the AC unit, and discharge that air back into the interior after cooling and filtering, where it is continuously recirculated. This recirculation of indoor air may cause a higher risk of infection through aerosol transmission when viruses are present.

Through the results of testing by Guangzhou Institute of Microbiology in China (CGMT), Gree demonstrates that its new “Fresh Air” air conditioner with Violeds UV LED technology has the performance to sterilize 99.15% of viruses and bacteria, 98% of enteroviruses such as EV71 and H1N1, and 99% of staphylococcus albus bacteria. In addition, according to the results of testing conducted in April and May 2020 by the research group of Korea University, Violeds UV LED technology has been proven to sterilize 99.9% of the new coronavirus in 30 seconds.