How Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses

The sun releases three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely 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 outstanding germicidal benefits. In actuality, 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 destroy microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may drastically improve your indoor air quality. 

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work? 

Ultraviolet lamps are installed within your ductwork, where they run constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and intense UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure. 

5 Pluses of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System 

With other types of air cleaning possible, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks: 

1. Clean Coils 

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, particularly when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot grow. 

2. Fresher Indoor Air 

Media air filters can latch onto minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the amount of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow. 

3. Better Efficiency 

By maintaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month. 

4. Greater HVAC Lifetime 

Clean equipment works more evenly and needs repairs less frequently. It might even run years longer. 

5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs 

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can collect in the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan. 

Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights? 

When you consider all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any home. You are more apt to recognize having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has: 

• Allergies 

• Asthma 
• Any respiratory condition 
• Compromised immune system 

If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, talk with Levy & Son Service Experts. We can suggest the ideal 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 since UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights perform, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 469-250-0932 now!