Finding the best whole house UV water purifier system involves balancing performance, cost, and ease of maintenance. The top pick, HQUA TWS-24S, stands out for its high flow rate and robust UV filtration, ideal for larger households. The Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter with UV offers excellent longevity with a 500,000-gallon capacity, making it perfect for well water users. However, tradeoffs include higher upfront costs or larger installation spaces. Continue reading for a detailed comparison of these options and more, helping you identify the best fit for your water quality needs and household size.
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Key Takeaways
- Flow rate capacity varies significantly, impacting suitability for small versus large households.
- UV lamp longevity and replacement costs are critical to ongoing maintenance expenses.
- Construction materials like stainless steel generally offer better durability and corrosion resistance.
- Additional features like alarms or LED indicators enhance safety and ease of use.
- Price often correlates with flow rate, build quality, and included features, so consider your long-term value needs.
| whole house uv water purifier system | Flow Rate | Material | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| UV Water Filter Whole House Sy | 12 GPM | — | 55W |
| Aquasana Whole House Well Wate | — | — | — |
| UV Water Filter Whole House | 12 GPM | Stainless Steel | 120V |
| iSpring UVF55FS Whole House UV | 12 GPM | Stainless Steel | 55W |
| Geekpure 12 GPM Whole House UV | 12 GPM | Stainless Steel 304 | 55W |
| iSpring UVF50 Whole House LED | — | Metal | — |
| Whole House UV Water Filter Sy | 12 GPM | Stainless Steel | 55W |
| HQUA TWS-24S Whole House UV Wa | — | 304 stainless steel | — |
| HQUA WF3-03 3-Stage Whole Hous | 3-15 GPM | — | — |
| Bluonics Whole House UV Water | 24 GPM | Stainless Steel | 110W |
| HQUA-TWS-12 Ultraviolet Water | 12 GPM | Stainless Steel | 120V |
| HQUA-OWS-12 120V 40W 3/4" MNPT | 12 GPM | 304 Stainless Steel, Quartz Glass | 40W, 120V |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UV Water Filter Whole House System, 3/4″ MNPT, 55W, 12 GPM, 120V, with Extra Lamp
This system stands out for its robust 12 GPM flow rate and durable stainless steel housing, making it ideal for large households that require constant water access. Compared to the iSpring UVF55FS, it offers a similar flow but comes with a bulkier size, requiring more space. The inclusion of an extra UV lamp simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime, but it necessitates an electrical connection and periodic lamp replacements. Its high capacity and straightforward installation make it perfect for those prioritizing continuous, chemical-free UV purification across the entire home. However, its size may challenge tighter spaces, and ongoing lamp replacements are an added maintenance step.Pros:- High flow rate suitable for large households
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Includes extra UV lamp for easier maintenance
Cons:- Requires electrical setup for UV operation
- Bulkier size demands more space
- Periodic UV lamp replacement needed
Best for: Families with high water demand and ample space who want reliable whole-house UV treatment.
Not ideal for: Small homes or apartments with limited space, as its bulkier size may be inconvenient.
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Power:55W
- Voltage:120V
- Lamp Life:1500 hours
- Housing Material:Stainless Steel
- Connection Size:3/4″ MNPT
Our verdict“This system makes the most sense for large households seeking high-capacity, durable UV water purification with straightforward maintenance.”
Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter with UV – 500,000 Gallon (EQ-Well-UV-PRO-AST)
This system excels at tackling well water issues, especially bacteria and viruses, thanks to its integrated UV stage and multi-stage filtration that includes carbon and KDF media. Compared with the UV-only options like the Geekpure, it offers comprehensive treatment with scale control and mineral preservation, making it ideal for well users. The long lifespan of 500,000 gallons and 5-year warranty provide peace of mind, but it’s designed for moderate hardness levels and does not soften water or handle high iron content. Its salt-free scale control is a major advantage for low-maintenance operation, though it’s not suitable for very hard or iron-rich waters. This makes it perfect for homeowners prioritizing contamination removal without water softening.Pros:- Effective bacterial and virus removal for well water
- Long-lasting filter capacity with 5-year lifespan
- Salt-free scale control reduces maintenance
Cons:- Not suitable for very hard or iron-rich water
- Does not soften water or remove high mineral content
Best for: Homeowners with private wells needing reliable bacteria, virus, and cyst reduction without extensive maintenance.
Not ideal for: Users with very hard or iron-rich well water, since it doesn’t soften or address high iron levels.
- Filter Capacity:500,000 gallons
- Lifespan:5 years
- Warranty:5-year limited
- Chlorine Reduction:Up to 97%
- Filter Stages:Pre-filter, post-filter, carbon, KDF, UV
- Max Hardness Rating:Under 15 gpg
Our verdict“Ideal for well owners seeking a long-lasting, chemical-free system that addresses bacteria and scale without softening water.”
UV Water Filter Whole House, 1″ MNPT, 55W Water Purifier System for Under Sink Water Filter, 120V 12GPM with Extra Bulb
This model offers a reliable 12 GPM flow rate and sturdy stainless steel build, making it suitable for whole-house UV purification. Its larger 1″ inlet/outlet size allows for easier integration with existing plumbing systems, especially compared to smaller 3/4″ models like the B07YJT6GBT. Its 55W UV lamp provides effective disinfection, but the UV-only approach means no additional filtration of sediments or chemicals, limiting its scope. The durable construction ensures longevity, yet replacing the UV lamp is a regular task, and its higher cost might deter budget-conscious buyers. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners who need effective UV sterilization as part of their broader water treatment system.Pros:- High flow rate suitable for whole house
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Easy to install and integrate
Cons:- UV lamp requires replacement after lifespan
- Limited to UV purification alone
- More expensive than simple filters
Best for: Homeowners seeking a straightforward UV treatment solution with easy installation and reliable performance.
Not ideal for: Those wanting comprehensive filtration or dealing with high sediment or chemical contamination, as it offers only UV sterilization.
- Inlet/Outlet:1″ MNPT
- Power:120V
- Wattage:55W
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Lamp Lifespan:1500 hours
- Material:Stainless Steel
Our verdict“Best suited for those wanting effective UV sterilization integrated into their existing water system without additional filtration needs.”
iSpring UVF55FS Whole House UV Water Filter, 1″ MNPT Inlet/Outlet, 12 GPM
The iSpring UVF55FS combines a sturdy stainless steel chamber with a smart flow sensor, offering reliable, chemical-free UV treatment for the entire home at 12 GPM. Its intelligent flow switch enhances safety by alerting users to issues, making it a solid choice for those who want a monitored UV system. Compared to the Geekpure model, it emphasizes durability and smart features, but it requires regular lamp replacements and some DIY skills during installation. While it doesn’t address sediments or chemicals beyond UV sterilization, its long-lasting components and alarm system can prevent unnoticed failure, making it ideal for cautious homeowners who value durability and monitoring.Pros:- Durable stainless steel construction
- Smart flow sensor with alerts
- Effective UV sterilization for whole house
Cons:- Requires regular UV lamp replacement
- Installation may require some DIY skills
- Limited to UV treatment only
Best for: Homeowners seeking a durable, monitored UV system that ensures continuous water safety with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: People wanting integrated multi-stage filtration or dealing with high sediment loads, as this focuses solely on UV sterilization.
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Power:55W
- Inlet/Outlet:1″ MNPT
- Dimensions:40″L x 8″W x 8″H
- Weight:7.5 pounds
- Material:Stainless Steel
Our verdict“Perfect for safety-conscious homeowners who want a durable, monitored UV solution for whole-house sterilization.”
Geekpure 12 GPM Whole House UV Water Filter, 1-inch NPT, 55 Watt
This Geekpure model offers a solid 12 GPM flow rate and includes multiple components—UV filters, quartz sleeves, and an electronic ballast with alarm—making it a comprehensive UV treatment solution. Compared to the iSpring, it emphasizes multiple UV filters and an alarm system, which can prevent unnoticed failures, but it doesn’t address sediments or chemical contaminants beyond UV sterilization. The stainless steel 304 chamber enhances durability, but ongoing lamp replacement and electrical power needs are considerations. It suits those who want a full, alarm-equipped UV system that covers the entire house and values safety features for peace of mind.Pros:- Effective whole house UV sterilization
- Includes multiple UV filters and quartz sleeves
- Alarm system for failure alerts
Cons:- Requires regular UV lamp maintenance
- Costlier than basic UV filters
- Does not treat sediments or chemicals
Best for: Homeowners needing a thorough, alarm-equipped UV system with reliable, chemical-free disinfection.
Not ideal for: Those seeking integrated multi-stage filtration or water softening, since it focuses exclusively on UV sterilization.
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Power:55W
- Connection Size:1″ NPT
- Dimensions:44″ L x 8″ W x 6″ H
- Material:Stainless Steel 304
- UV Lamp Life:9000 hours minimum
Our verdict“Best for users wanting a comprehensive, alarm-equipped UV system for safe, chemical-free water across their entire home.”
iSpring UVF50 Whole House LED UV Water Filter, 1″ FNPT Inlet/Outlet, 13.2 GPM
This model stands out for its combination of high flow rate and low maintenance, making it ideal for most typical households. Compared with the Bluonics system, the UVF50 offers a slightly lower maximum flow but benefits from a mercury-free LED and a built-in flow sensor that activates only when water flows, saving energy and extending LED life. Its durable metal construction supports standard 1-inch FNPT connections, simplifying installation. The long-lasting LED module, rated for over 8,000 hours, minimizes replacement frequency. However, the maximum flow rate of 13.2 GPM might fall short for very large households with multiple simultaneous demands. The LED system, while mercury-free and odorless, will eventually need replacement after its service life. This pick makes the most sense for households seeking reliable, low-maintenance UV treatment with straightforward installation.
Pros:- Long-lasting LED module with up to 11 years of operation
- Automatic flow sensor reduces unnecessary operation and maintenance
- Mercury-free, odorless UV design with no warm-up time
Cons:- Limited to a maximum flow of 13.2 GPM, which may not meet very high demand
- Requires 1-inch FNPT plumbing connections, potentially complicating retrofit installs
Best for: Families wanting a dependable, energy-efficient UV system with moderate flow capacity
Not ideal for: Large commercial settings or households with very high simultaneous water demand exceeding 13.2 GPM
- Maximum Flow Rate:13.2 GPM
- Inlet/Outlet Connection:1 in FNPT
- UV Treatment Efficiency:Up to 99%
- LED Service Life:Over 8,000 hours
- Material:Metal
- Dimensions:12.6″ L x 2.42″ W x 2.42″ H
Our verdict“This system suits households seeking a reliable, low-maintenance UV solution for standard water flow needs.”
Whole House UV Water Filter System 12 GPM – 55W Stainless Steel UV Light with LED Indicator & Alarm
This system excels for households that prioritize chemical-free purification combined with a robust stainless steel chamber. It offers a slightly lower flow rate (12 GPM) than the Bluonics or HQUA TWS-24S but compensates with a full set of features including LED indicators, an audible alarm, and extra bulbs for ongoing maintenance. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for well or city water. Installation requires some expertise, and the initial cost is higher than smaller or less feature-rich units. Compared to the HQUA TWS-24S, it may be less suited for very large homes needing higher flow rates but is more compact and easier to handle. The inclusion of spare bulbs and a clear indicator system makes upkeep straightforward, though periodic replacement of lamps and sleeves is necessary for optimal performance.
Pros:- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel chamber for long-term durability
- Includes spare UV bulbs and quartz sleeves for convenience
- LED indicator and audible alarm for real-time monitoring
Cons:- Limited to 12 GPM, which may be insufficient for very large households
- Requires professional installation for optimal setup
Best for: Homeowners seeking a durable, chemical-free UV system with easy-to-monitor operation
Not ideal for: Large households or commercial sites requiring flow rates above 12 GPM or more complex systems
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Power:55W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Connections:3/4″ NPT
- Maximum Temperature:104 °F
- Item Dimensions:46″L x 7″W x 6″H
Our verdict“This system is a solid choice for homeowners prioritizing durability and straightforward, chemical-free UV treatment.”
HQUA TWS-24S Whole House UV Water Purifier – 24 GPM Ultraviolet Water Filter System with Flow Switch
The HQUA TWS-24S makes a strong impression for its high flow capacity and flow-activated operation, perfect for large homes or light commercial use. Its 80W UV lamp, housed in a durable 304 stainless steel chamber, supports flows up to 24 GPM—double the capacity of many comparable units like the iSpring UVF50. The flow switch activates the UV lamp only when water flows, optimizing energy use and ensuring the chamber remains clear of stagnant water. The system includes a spare UV lamp and quartz sleeve, but it’s important to note that it requires ongoing electricity, so it won’t operate during power outages. The 80W UV lamp, while efficient, may cause some confusion compared to the total system power rating of 105W. This model is better suited for large households or small commercial applications that need high-volume, chemical-free purification.
Pros:- High flow rate of up to 24 GPM for large scale applications
- Flow-activated UV operation conserves energy and prevents stagnation
- Includes spare UV lamp and quartz sleeve for maintenance
Cons:- Requires electricity, so no operation during power outages
- Larger size and higher power consumption may increase installation and operational costs
Best for: Large homes or light commercial facilities needing high flow and reliable UV disinfection
Not ideal for: Small households or users seeking a purely passive system without electrical dependence
- Flow Capacity:24 GPM
- UV Lamp Power:80W
- Material:304 stainless steel
- Chamber Size:22″ x 4″
- Flow Switch:Yes (flow-activated with 30-minute post-flow run)
- Includes:Spare UV lamp and quartz sleeve
Our verdict“Ideal for large-scale homes or light commercial use where high flow capacity and continuous UV disinfection are priorities.”
HQUA WF3-03 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System with UV Filter
This versatile system distinguishes itself by combining multi-stage filtration with UV disinfection, making it suitable for households with diverse water quality issues. It reduces heavy metals like lead and arsenic, PFAS, chlorine, sediment, and VOCs, offering comprehensive protection. Its built-in pressure gauges and 180-day filter timers simplify maintenance, and the inclusion of adapters supports flexible installation. The 55W UV filter, rated to eliminate up to 99.99% of microorganisms, adds essential microbial control. Compared with systems like the iSpring UVF50, it targets broader contaminants and provides a multi-layer approach. However, at 44 pounds, its weight and size may complicate installation, especially in tight spaces. Frequent filter replacements every six months are necessary to maintain performance, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
Pros:- Reduces heavy metals, PFAS, chlorine, sediment, and VOCs
- Includes pressure gauges and filter life timers for easy maintenance
- Flexible installation options with included adapters
Cons:- Heavy weight of 44 lbs can complicate installation
- Requires frequent filter changes every 6 months
Best for: Households needing broad-spectrum contaminant removal combined with microbial disinfection
Not ideal for: Small homes or users seeking a purely UV-only system without extensive filtration stages
- Flow Rate:3-15 GPM
- UV Filter Power:55W
- Max Flow Rate:15 GPM
- Filters Included:2x 20″ filters, 1x UV filter
- Dimensions:22″L x 9.5″W x 28″H
- Capacity:100,000 gallons
Our verdict“This system suits households with complex water quality challenges seeking integrated filtration and UV disinfection.”
Bluonics Whole House UV Water Filter System 24 GPM – 110W Stainless Steel UV Light with 1″ NPT, LED Indicator & Audible Alarm
The Bluonics system is engineered for large homes or light commercial use, offering a substantial flow capacity of 24 GPM. Its 110W UV lamp housed in a heavy-duty stainless steel chamber ensures reliable, chemical-free disinfection. The inclusion of dual electronic ballasts, LED indicator, and audible alarm provides comprehensive monitoring, reducing the risk of untreated water passing through unnoticed. Its robust construction and high power output make it suitable for demanding applications, but the system’s weight (16 pounds) and size could make installation more challenging in tighter spaces. The high power and flow rate come with higher operational costs, and the system does not include pre-filtration, which might be necessary depending on water source. This makes it a clear choice for those requiring maximum flow and microbial safety in larger setups.
Pros:- High flow capacity of 24 GPM for large-scale needs
- Dual ballasts and alarms for continuous monitoring and safety
- Heavy-duty stainless steel construction for durability
Cons:- High power consumption and operational costs
- No built-in filtration or pre-treatment features
Best for: Large properties or light commercial facilities needing high-capacity, reliable UV disinfection
Not ideal for: Small households or those with limited space and lower flow requirements
- Flow Rate:24 GPM
- Power:110W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Connections:1″ NPT
- LED Indicator:Yes
- Audible Alarm:Yes
Our verdict“This system is ideal for large-scale use where maximum flow and microbial safety are the primary concerns.”
HQUA-TWS-12 Ultraviolet Water Purifier Filter for Whole House Water Purification, 12 GPM, 120V, with Extra UV Lamp and Quartz Sleeve
This model stands out for its compact size and straightforward wall-mounted setup, making it a strong choice for those needing effective whole house disinfection without complex plumbing. Compared with larger systems like the HQUA-OWS-12, it offers similar flow rates but in a more space-efficient form, ideal for small to medium homes. The inclusion of an extra UV lamp and quartz sleeve provides peace of mind for ongoing maintenance, although the UV bulb lifespan of around 9,000 hours means replacements are needed over time. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability, but professional installation is advisable to optimize performance. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners who prioritize ease of installation and maintenance in a smaller footprint.
Pros:- Compact size simplifies installation in tight spaces
- Includes extra UV lamp and quartz sleeve for extended use
- Effective microorganism reduction without altering water chemistry
- Stainless steel construction offers durability
Cons:- Requires professional installation for optimal setup
- UV bulb lifespan may necessitate periodic replacements
Best for: Homeowners seeking a reliable, space-efficient UV system that is easy to install and maintain
Not ideal for: Large households or commercial settings requiring higher throughput or more robust systems, as this model’s compact design may limit capacity
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Power:120V
- Dimensions:21″L x 3.5″W x 3.5″H
- Material:Stainless Steel
- UV Bulb Life:9000 hours
- Inlet/Outlet:3/4″ MNPT
- Maximum Temperature:140°F
- Weight:4.38 kg
Our verdict“This system is perfect for small to medium homes that need effective, space-saving UV disinfection with minimal maintenance complexity.”
HQUA-OWS-12 120V 40W 3/4″ MNPT Whole House Ultraviolet Water Purifier with Extra UV Bulb
This model makes a compelling case for durability, thanks to its 37.2-inch stainless steel chamber and 40W UV lamp, providing robust microbial disinfection for larger households or well water sources. Compared to the UV Water Filter Whole House System with 55W, the HQUA-OWS-12 offers slightly less power but emphasizes longer-lasting stainless steel construction that resists corrosion over time. Its design facilitates easy installation with 3/4″ MNPT fittings and includes an extra UV bulb, which helps offset ongoing maintenance costs. However, the horizontal orientation and metal connectors can add complexity and cost during setup. This pick targets buyers who prioritize longevity, durability, and chemical-free purification without sacrificing flow rate or ease of use.
Pros:- Heavy-duty 304 stainless steel chamber enhances longevity
- Chemical-free UV purification preserves water’s natural qualities
- Includes an extra replacement UV bulb for ongoing maintenance
- No chemical additives or taste alteration
Cons:- Horizontal installation may require additional support or costs
- Bulb replacement involves ongoing maintenance and monitoring
Best for: Households with well water or those seeking a durable, long-lasting UV system with minimal impact on water taste and chemistry
Not ideal for: Small households or those with space constraints, as its larger chamber and horizontal installation requirements may be less convenient
- Power:40W, 120V
- Flow Rate:12 GPM
- Chamber Dimensions:37.2″ L x 2.5″ W x 2.5″ H
- Material:304 Stainless Steel, Quartz Glass
- Max Temperature:140 °F
- Max TDS:1000 PPM
- Inlet/Outlet:3/4″ MNPT
- Weight:7.9 pounds
Our verdict“This system is well-suited for homeowners prioritizing long-term durability and chemical-free disinfection in larger or well water systems.”
How We Picked
In evaluating these systems, I focused on key factors that impact real-world use: filtration performance, UV lamp lifespan, build quality, ease of installation, and overall value. Systems with higher flow rates and durable materials ranked higher because they better serve larger households or those with higher water demands. I also considered user-friendly features like alarms or indicator lights, which can prevent system failure. Price was balanced against features and build quality to identify options that offer the best combination of performance and value. The ranking reflects a mix of capacity, durability, maintenance costs, and user convenience, ensuring a well-rounded selection for various needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Whole House Uv Water Purifier System
Choosing the best whole house UV water purifier system requires understanding several key factors that influence performance, longevity, and cost. Not all systems are created equal, and the right choice depends on your household size, water source, and budget. Here are the main considerations to help guide your decision-making process.Flow Rate and Capacity
Flow rate determines how much water the system can treat per minute, directly affecting household suitability. Larger households or those with high water usage should prioritize systems with higher GPM ratings, like 24 GPM models, to prevent pressure drops or untreated water. Conversely, smaller homes might opt for more modest flow rates, saving money without sacrificing performance. Remember that a system’s capacity also impacts how often you need to replace UV lamps or perform maintenance.
UV Lamp Durability and Replacement Costs
UV lamps typically need replacement every 12 to 24 months, depending on usage and model. Systems with longer-lasting lamps or easy replacement procedures reduce ongoing maintenance hassle and costs. Higher-end models often include indicator lights or alarms to alert when lamps need changing, preventing water quality issues. Factor in both initial lamp cost and replacement frequency to estimate long-term expenses accurately.
Construction Materials and Durability
Stainless steel bodies generally resist corrosion better than plastic or composite materials, especially in harsh water conditions or environments with high chlorine levels. A durable build extends system lifespan and maintains performance over years. Cheaper plastic models may be more vulnerable to damage or wear, making them less suitable for long-term use in demanding conditions. Consider your local water chemistry when evaluating material choices.
Additional Features and Ease of Maintenance
Features like LED indicators, alarms, or flow switches can significantly simplify system management. These additions alert you to problems before they affect water quality, saving time and potential repair costs. Also, look for systems with straightforward installation and accessible filter or lamp replacement procedures. While extra features might increase upfront costs, they often improve safety and user convenience in the long run.
Price Versus Long-Term Value
While cheaper systems may seem attractive initially, they can lack durability, capacity, or features that affect ongoing costs. Investing in a slightly higher-priced system with better materials or higher flow rates can reduce maintenance frequency and improve water quality. Balance your budget against expected lifespan, replacement costs, and household needs to find the best long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to replace the UV lamp?
Most UV lamps require replacement every 12 to 24 months, depending on water usage and the system’s specifications. Regular replacement ensures the system maintains effective microbial disinfection. Many models include indicator lights or alarms to notify you when a lamp replacement is due, which helps maintain optimal water quality without guesswork. Neglecting to replace lamps can result in reduced UV effectiveness and potential water safety issues.
Can I install a whole house UV system myself?
Installation difficulty varies by system, but many models are designed for DIY setup with basic plumbing skills and tools. However, for larger or more complex systems, professional installation might be advisable to ensure proper connection and compliance with local codes. Correct installation is crucial for system performance and safety, so evaluate your comfort level and technical skills before attempting installation yourself.
Are UV water purifiers effective against all contaminants?
UV systems excel at neutralizing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, but they do not remove chemical contaminants or heavy metals. For comprehensive water treatment, consider combining UV filtration with other filtration methods like activated carbon or reverse osmosis. This layered approach ensures your water is both microbiologically safe and free from chemical pollutants.
What size system do I need for my household?
Selection depends on your household size and water usage. Larger families typically need systems rated for 20 GPM or higher, while smaller households may find 12 GPM units sufficient. Consider peak usage times, such as mornings and evenings, to select a system that can handle your maximum demand without sacrificing water pressure or quality.
Is a UV system suitable for well water?
Yes, UV systems are effective for disinfecting well water, which can contain bacteria and viruses. However, well water often contains sediment or other particulates that can shield microorganisms from UV light, so pre-filtration or sediment removal steps are recommended before UV treatment. Regular testing of your water quality will help determine if additional filtration components are necessary to complement the UV system.
