The VH200 destroys 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, and cysts including E. coli, total coliform, Giardia, Cryptosporidium (chlorine-resistant), hepatitis A, norovirus, rotavirus, Legionella, Salmonella, and Campylobacter. It achieves this through UV-C light at 254 nanometers, which scrambles microbial DNA on contact. The system delivers a 40 mJ/cm2 UV dose at 7 GPM, the NSF 55 Class A standard for treating microbiologically unsafe water.

The VH200 is sized for homes with 1 to 2 bathrooms, delivering 9 GPM of UV-treated water at 30 mJ/cm2. This covers normal household usage including a shower, kitchen, and laundry running simultaneously. For larger homes with 3 or more bathrooms, the Viqua VH410 (18 GPM, $995) provides double the capacity. When in doubt, size up. The VH410 costs only $100 more and gives you significantly more headroom.

Every 12 months, regardless of whether the bulb still appears to be working. UV-C output degrades over time even though the bulb continues to glow. By month 12, output may drop to 60-70% of original intensity, not enough for full disinfection. The VH200's electronic controller tracks lamp life and alerts you when replacement is due. The replacement lamp (S200RL-HO) costs $100 and the swap takes about 15 minutes.

Yes. A 5-micron sediment pre-filter upstream of the UV chamber is strongly recommended. It catches particulates that could shadow bacteria from the UV light. If your water has iron above 0.3 ppm, hardness above 7 grains per gallon, or any visible cloudiness, you need to address those issues before adding UV. Iron fouls the quartz sleeve within weeks, and turbidity creates shadows where bacteria survive. Clean water first, then UV as the final disinfection step.

Yes. Most homeowners install the VH200 in 1 to 2 hours with basic plumbing skills. The compact unit (15" x 3.5") mounts to the wall and splices into the main water line. You need shutoff valves on both sides, a standard 120V GFCI outlet, and copper fittings at the UV chamber connections (PEX does not work well at these connection points). Leave 18 inches of clearance below for maintenance access. If you are not comfortable with plumbing, a local plumber can handle it in about an hour.

The VH200 delivers 9 GPM of UV-treated water and is sized for 1 to 2 bathroom homes ($895). The VH410 delivers 18 GPM, double the capacity, and is designed for 3+ bathroom homes ($995). Both deliver the same 40 mJ/cm2 UV dose (NSF 55 Class A) and use the same electronic controller technology. The VH410 uses a larger chamber (23.5" vs 15") and consumes 60W vs the VH200's 35W. The VH410 costs only $100 more. For a detailed comparison, see our Viqua VH200 vs VH410 guide.

No. UV is a disinfection technology. It kills living organisms but does not physically remove anything from the water. It has no effect on iron, manganese, sediment, chemicals, heavy metals, hardness, or taste and odor. If your water has these issues in addition to bacteria, you need separate treatment for each problem. The typical treatment sequence is: sediment filter, then iron filter, then UV system, then acid neutralizer or water softener (if needed).