The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may result in sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light offers fantastic germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they work constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and destroy most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning in use, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently moist, namely during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment works more steadily and needs repairs less often. It could even work years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can block the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights lower the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove helpful in any residence. You are most likely to appreciate installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weakened immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, chat with Calverley Service Experts. We can recommend the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician because UVC exposure may cause skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 817-380-5647 right away!