How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses

The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might result in sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.

UVC light comes with incredible germicidal benefits. In fact, 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 break down microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may drastically improve your indoor air quality.

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?

Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.

5 Pluses of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System

With other types of air cleaning available, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these advantages:

1. Cleaner Coils

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently damp, especially during warmer months. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.

2. Healthier Indoor Air

Media air filters can trap the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.

3. Improved Efficiency

By maintaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system run more effectively. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs every month.

4. Extended HVAC Lifetime

Clean equipment performs more steadily and malfunctions less often. It can even work years longer.

5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which travels away into a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can block the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights reduce the risk of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.

Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?

When you weigh all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any house. You are most likely to notice having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:

• • Allergies

• • Asthma

• • Any respiratory issue

• • Weaker 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 wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure could cause skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights perform, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 866-397-3787 now!