The sun releases three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light grants useful germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a cleaning 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 under 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 function constantly. 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 found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these advantages:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely wet, particularly when it’s hot. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system function more easily. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs every month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment works more steadily and breaks down less often. It may even last years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth initially, UVC lights reduce the odds of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the benefits they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove worthwhile in any residence. You are most likely to benefit from having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Compromised immune system
If you’re thinking about installing germicidal UV lights, chat with Strogen's Service Experts. We can help you determine the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician because UVC exposure may cause skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights work, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, call us at 603-923-4570 today!