The sun releases three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can result in 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 aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light grants useful 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 break down microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could seriously enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they work constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning available, why should you consider installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these advantages:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often moist, particularly during warmer months. By continuously 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 function more effectively. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment works more smoothly and breaks down less regularly. It might even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can obstruct the drain line. By halting organic growth in the first place, UVC lights lower the odds of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the pluses they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any house. You are more likely to recognize installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Compromised immune system
If you’re considering getting germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help you determine the ideal 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 can lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights can help, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 925-364-5427 right away!