The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you apply 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 don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light grants fantastic 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 destroy microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could seriously enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed within your ductwork, where they work continuously. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning in use, why should you think over placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently moist, especially in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to grow.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the concentration of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system function more easily. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs from month to month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment performs more steadily and malfunctions less frequently. It could even work years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can clog the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights decrease the odds of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the perks they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any house. You are more apt to notice adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weaker immune system
If you’re considering getting germicidal UV lights, discuss it 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 an expert since UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights work, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, call us at 239-908-6991 right away!