How Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System Kills Viruses
The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might produce sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light provides incredible germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a sterilization method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps destroy microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed in your ductwork, where they work constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning available, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these benefits:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often moist, particularly during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By providing normal airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system work more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment functions more steadily and malfunctions less often. It can even last years longer.
5. Lower 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 collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth initially, UVC lights minimize the chance of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the pluses they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove helpful in any house. You are more likely to benefit from having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weakened immune system
If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, chat with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help you determine the best 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 may cause skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights function, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, call us at 954-736-4314 now!
