The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light grants highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a cleaning method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed in your ductwork, where they work continuously. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning available, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these pluses:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely wet, especially during warmer months. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the number of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment works more evenly and needs repairs less regularly. It might even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away into a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can obstruct the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights lower the odds of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any residence. You are more likely to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Roland J. Down Service Experts . We can suggest 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 may lead to skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights work, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 518-417-2938 right away!