How Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses
The sun emits three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light offers incredible germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a purification method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may dramatically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they run constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning on the market, why should you consider putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently wet, particularly during warmer months. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system function more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment operates more steadily and breaks down less frequently. It could even run years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can clog the drain line. By stopping organic growth initially, UVC lights minimize the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove useful in any residence. You are more likely to notice having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Compromised immune system
If you’re thinking about installing germicidal UV lights, speak with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help you determine the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician as UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights work, or to request a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 954-736-4314 now!
