The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light offers useful germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a purification method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they run constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning in use, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these pluses:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely wet, particularly in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to take hold.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can be effective at catching dust, pollen, dander and other large contaminants, but only the highest-rated HEPA filters can catch tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By maintaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system function more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Greater HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment performs more evenly and malfunctions less frequently. It can even run years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can obstruct the drain line. By stopping organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the risk of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove valuable in any house. You are more apt to appreciate adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Any respiratory issue
- Weaker immune system
If you’re thinking about installing germicidal UV lights, discuss it with A1 Chesney Service Experts. We can help you determine the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional since UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights can help, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 587-315-5271 right away!