The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might cause sunburn unless you apply 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 don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light provides exceptional germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a purification method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they run around the clock. 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 won’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other types of air cleaning possible, why should you think over installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently moist, particularly when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system function more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Greater HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment operates more evenly and needs repairs less often. It could even run years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth in the first place, UVC lights decrease the odds of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you think about all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any home. You are more apt to notice installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, chat with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can recommend the best 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 could result in skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights can help, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 403-279-5760 now!