When you hear the phrase ultraviolet light, you might think of getting sunburned after spending a day at the pool. And yet, UV light is also a tool for enhancing indoor air quality. Sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the form of light used in air purification. If you deal with allergies or asthma or want to reduce the dispersal of illnesses around your home, a UV light within the HVAC system just might be the air quality solution you’ve been looking for!
How Does a UV Light Function?
The germicidal effects of ultraviolet light have been recognized for more than 100 years. UVC rays were originally employed to treat tuberculosis. These days, germicidal lamps are used in hospitals, food processing plants, water treatment plants and air purification products.
A UV lamp added to your HVAC unit boosts the air quality in your home by eliminating microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, mold and more. It generally needs 10 seconds of contact to disrupt these germs’ DNA, killing them or stopping them from replicating.
UV lights also target volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in cleaners and repellents on top of airborne bioaerosols such as pollen and pet dander. Still, UV lights don’t physically 'trap' contaminants, so you still require an air filtration system to remove dust, fibers and other particles from your home's air supply.
How Successful Are UV Lights?
Assuming they are installed properly and feature the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are remarkably effective at increasing indoor air quality. One study completed by Duke University revealed that UV light deactivated more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another report measured “significantly lower” fungal levels within a commercial property's HVAC system after four months of using a UV light.
Benefits of UV Lights
Place an ultraviolet lamp in your HVAC system to take advantage of these benefits:
- Cleaner indoor air: UV light technology disinfects the air around the clock without introducing chemicals into the environment. As opposed to other air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t generate ozone, a recognized lung irritant that is very hazardous to individuals with asthma, allergies or chronic lung diseases.
- Lower chance of getting sick: When used in tandem with good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV lights can reduce the risk of catching viral and bacterial infections.
- Stronger protection for your HVAC system: Mold, fungi and bacteria can negatively impact your heating and cooling equipment. Keep the system working smoothly and efficiently with a quality UV light.
- Smaller HVAC maintenance and repair needs: With an inherently cleaner central HVAC system, you enjoy more manageable maintenance requirements and minimal need for emergency repairs. These savings can help recoup the cost of running a UV light and replacing the bulb.
Where Do UV Lights Get Installed?
If you select an air-sanitizing UV light, your installer should position it within your ductwork near the HVAC system. There, the lamp helps clean the air before it flows throughout your home.
If you choose a coil-sanitizing UV light, it will sit close to the AC evaporator coil. There, it deactivates mold and bacteria that accumulate on the damp coil, keeping your system clean and operating smoothly.
Are UV Lights Safe?
The sun continually releases invisible UV radiation. As you already know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen when hanging out outdoors. The sun also emits UVC rays, the most destructive type of solar radiation capable of killing microorganisms and irritating other living tissue, such as the skin and eyes.
Thankfully, the atmosphere blocks out these rays altogether, so they don’t get through to the earth’s surface.
Understanding that UVC rays are dangerous, why should you feel comfortable installing a UVC light in your HVAC system? It’s simple—the light is restricted to the ductwork where you won't come in contact with it, so it poses no risk to you and your family. When the time comes to clean the lamp or swap out the bulb, your HVAC technician will shut down the system briefly to prevent being exposed to the damaging light.
How Long Do UV Lights Last?
UV lights are on constantly and generally last nine to 14 months. Routine HVAC maintenance (once in the spring for your air conditioner and again in the fall for your furnace) is the perfect time to have these bulbs checked and changed out as needed.
Request UV Light Installation
Calverley Service Experts offers a number of air quality solutions, including UV lights for HVAC systems. We would be glad to evaluate your home and your family’s needs to advise the solutions that are best for you. Enjoy the peace of mind that that all work we produce is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact your local Calverley Service Experts office to schedule UV light installation or request a free home health consultation today.