The sun releases three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. 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 exceptional 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 including bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can seriously improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed within your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning on the market, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these advantages:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently moist, especially when it’s hot. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot flourish.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment operates more smoothly and malfunctions less often. It might even work years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away through a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can clog the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights decrease the risk of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the advantages they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any house. You are most likely to recognize installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, discuss it 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 important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional because UVC exposure might cause skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 330-269-7235 today!