The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light comes with highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a sterilization method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed within your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you think over installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely moist, particularly in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to flourish.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the concentration of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more efficiently. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment functions more evenly and needs repairs less regularly. It may even last years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can block the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the likelihood of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove useful in any home. You are more likely to benefit from having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can recommend the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional as UVC exposure might cause skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to request a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 901-235-1196 today!