How Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses
The sun emits three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light provides incredible germicidal benefits. In actuality, 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 destroy microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they function continuously. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning possible, why should you consider installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these perks:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, especially during warmer months. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the concentration of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By maintaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more effectively. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment operates more steadily and breaks down less frequently. It could even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can obstruct the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights decrease the likelihood of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the pluses they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove useful in any residence. You are more likely to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Compromised immune system
If you’re considering 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 best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician because UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 954-736-4314 now!
