Why Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System Can Kill Viruses and Make Your Residences Air Fresher
The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light comes with outstanding 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 eradicate microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed inside your ductwork, where they operate around the clock. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and neutralize the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning available, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these pluses:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often damp, namely during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to take hold.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment operates more evenly and breaks down less regularly. It might even work years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which drains away into a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can block the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights reduce the chance of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the pluses they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove helpful in any residence. You are more apt to recognize having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re thinking about adding germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Stevenson Service Experts. We can help you determine the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert since UVC exposure may cause skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 614-334-3192 today!
