The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you use 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 grants useful germicidal benefits. In reality, 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 could drastically enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, particularly in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more effectively. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment works more steadily and malfunctions less regularly. It may 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 clog the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights minimize the likelihood of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the benefits they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any house. You are more likely to benefit from installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, chat with Komfort Air Service Experts. 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 as UVC exposure might cause skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights function, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 704-705-8135 right away!