How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Wipes Out Viruses
The sun releases three types 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 separate. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light comes with highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could seriously enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used inside your ductwork, where they run constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning in use, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently damp, particularly when it’s hot. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to flourish.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the concentration of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more effectively. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment operates more smoothly and breaks down less frequently. It could even last years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which travels away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can fill up the drain line. By halting organic growth in the first place, UVC lights reduce the likelihood of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the benefits they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove valuable in any home. You are more apt to appreciate adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
-
- Allergies
-
- Asthma
-
- Any respiratory condition
-
- Compromised immune system
If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, chat with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can help you determine the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert as UVC exposure might result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights perform, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 866-397-3787 now!
-
A Good Spring Cleaning: An HVAC Maintenance Checklist for March
You’ve been hibernating during the colder months, but March is a time of year when things start happening. If you’re like many homeowners, you may be eager to leave winter in the dust and throw open the windows. Amid the flurry of organizing and cleaning, don’t neglect your heating and... Continue reading
-
7 Energy-Efficient HVAC Strategies for Early Spring
As chilly winter days become rarer and the mild warmth of early spring takes hold, you very well could start thinking about how you’ll keep your residence cool and comfortable when summer arrives. Spring is the perfect time to adopt energy-efficient cooling solutions to help you save big in the... Continue reading
-
Prepare Your HVAC System for Spring
As the days and nights get warmer this spring, your attention shifts from heating your home to cooling it. Getting your heating and cooling equipment ready for the changing seasons is crucial if you hope to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Follow these HVAC system transition... Continue reading