How Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses
The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light grants outstanding germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps destroy microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and intense UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you think over placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, especially in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to grow.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By providing adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment functions more evenly and malfunctions less regularly. It might even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can obstruct the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights minimize the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the pluses they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove valuable in any house. You are more likely to notice installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, speak 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 can lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights work, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 540-302-8645 right away!
