Power per lamp A single medium‑pressure UV lamp delivers high power, generally ranging from 1 kW to 10 kW. Low‑pressure UV lamps mostly range from 30 W to 320 W. Medium‑pressure lamps consume far more energy per unit lamp.

Specific energy consumption for equal flow rate & UV dose

Low‑pressure UV: It features high electro‑optical efficiency. Around 30‑40% of input electricity is converted into effective 254 nm germicidal UV light. For the same water throughput, specific energy consumption per ton of water is lower.

Medium‑pressure UV: Its overall electro‑optical efficiency is only 10‑15% for effective germicidal wavelengths; most input energy turns into heat. To achieve the same UV dose, energy consumption per ton of water is significantly higher.

Auxiliary energy consumption Medium‑pressure lamps generate massive heat. Most units require cooling systems  air‑cooled or water‑cooled . Fans or cooling water circulation bring extra power draw. Low‑pressure UV units seldom need forced cooling and produce negligible auxiliary energy consumption.

Special application note Medium‑pressure UV provides broad‑spectrum output and enables advanced oxidation functions for chloramine and TOC removal, yet it is not energy‑saving. Medium‑pressure UV is required when oxidation and degradation of organic by‑products are needed. Low‑pressure UV is preferred for disinfection‑only purposes.

Summary

Energy consumption ranking: Medium‑pressure UV disinfector > Low‑pressure UV disinfector

Low‑pressure UV: Energy‑efficient, ideal for scenarios focusing on disinfection only.

Medium‑pressure UV: Higher energy consumption, suitable for swimming pools, reclaimed water and other applications requiring oxidative degradation of by‑products.