How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Wipes Out Viruses
The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light provides outstanding germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a cleaning method for many years. 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 used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could seriously boost 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 runs, and intense UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning possible, why should you think over placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently moist, particularly during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the concentration of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By providing steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment operates more evenly and needs repairs less regularly. It may even last years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can clog the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights decrease the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the pluses they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove helpful in any house. You are more apt to benefit from having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Compromised immune system
If you’re thinking about installing germicidal UV lights, speak with Fras-Air/General Service Experts. We can suggest the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional since UVC exposure could result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights work, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 908-448-2154 right away!
