The sun produces three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light comes with useful germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a sterilization method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used inside your ductwork, where they work around the clock. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and intense UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning in use, why should you think about installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these advantages:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, particularly during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot flourish.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the number of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs from month to month.
4. Greater HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment functions more smoothly and malfunctions less often. 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 from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth in the first place, UVC lights lower the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove worthwhile in any residence. You are most likely to notice adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Roy Inch & Sons Home Services by Enercare. We can suggest the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure might result in skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights perform, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 226-270-1164 right away!