Do UV Lights in Your HVAC System Wipe Out Viruses?
The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light offers outstanding 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 eradicate microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used inside your ductwork, where they operate around the clock. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning in use, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these perks:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently damp, particularly in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the amount of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Greater HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment works more evenly and needs repairs less frequently. It might even run years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away into a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can block the drain line. By stopping organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the advantages they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove valuable in any home. You are more likely to benefit from adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Weakened immune system
If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can suggest the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional since UVC exposure might result in skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights work, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 561-629-1826 now!