The sun emits three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light grants incredible germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a cleaning method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed within your ductwork, where they operate around the clock. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you think over installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these pluses:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, particularly in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the concentration of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By maintaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment works more evenly and breaks down less frequently. It can even work years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which drains away through a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can obstruct the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights reduce the likelihood of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove valuable in any house. You are more apt to benefit from having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weakened immune system
If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can suggest the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional because UVC exposure may cause skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights can help, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 587-404-0790 today!