How Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses
The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light provides fantastic germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps destroy microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could dramatically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they work around the clock. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and intense UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these advantages:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, namely when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to flourish.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system run more easily. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment works more evenly and malfunctions less frequently. It could even last years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can collect in the drain line. By halting organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the chance of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you think about all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove worthwhile in any residence. You are most likely to benefit from adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re considering adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can recommend the best 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 can result in skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights can help, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 866-397-3787 today!
