The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may cause sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light offers fantastic germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a cleaning method for decades. 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 dramatically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed within your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and neutralize the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning possible, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often moist, especially in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule 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 cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more easily. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment performs more steadily and breaks down less frequently. It might even run years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you think about all the pluses they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove valuable in any home. You are most likely to notice adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into getting 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 best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert as UVC exposure can lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights perform, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, call us at 303-647-5749 right away!