The sun produces three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can produce sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. 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 offers exceptional germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used inside your ductwork, where they function around the clock. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing 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? Review these pluses:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently wet, namely during warmer months. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By maintaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system function more effectively. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment performs more steadily and breaks down less often. It may even last years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can collect in the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the risk of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the pluses they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove worthwhile in any residence. You are most likely to notice having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weaker immune system
If you’re considering getting germicidal UV lights, chat with Teays Valley Service Experts. We can recommend the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert since UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights perform, or to request a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 304-760-5088 today!