The sun releases three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light comes with exceptional germicidal benefits. In fact, 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 kill microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other types of air cleaning available, why should you think about installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely wet, especially when it’s hot. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not flourish.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the number of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system run more easily. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment performs more evenly and breaks down less often. It may even run years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which flows away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can fill up the drain line. By stopping organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the advantages they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove helpful in any home. You are more apt to notice having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Weakened immune system
If you’re thinking about installing germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can suggest the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional as UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 440-252-1375 today!