The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might produce sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light grants useful germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can seriously boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they run around the clock. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other types of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these pluses:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely moist, namely in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot grow.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system function more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment functions more smoothly and needs repairs less frequently. It can even work years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can block the drain line. By preventing organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the risk of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the advantages they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove valuable in any home. You are most likely to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weakened immune system
If you’re thinking about adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Orangutan Home Services. We can suggest the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional as UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights perform, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 602-906-0111 right away!