The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light comes with outstanding germicidal benefits. In reality, 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 break down microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can seriously boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed in your ductwork, where they function around the clock. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning available, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently damp, namely in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to take hold.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the concentration of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Greater HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment operates more evenly and breaks down less often. It can even run years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can block the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights reduce the risk of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any house. You are more likely to recognize adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re thinking about getting germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Levy & Son Service Experts. We can help you determine the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert because UVC exposure can result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights function, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 469-250-0932 today!