How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eradicates Viruses
The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can produce sunburn unless you use 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 come across them in nature.
UVC light offers useful germicidal benefits. In reality, 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 may dramatically enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they function continuously. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning possible, why should you consider putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely moist, especially during warmer months. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to grow.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment works more evenly and malfunctions less often. It can even last years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights minimize the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you think about all the benefits they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove valuable in any residence. You are more likely to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re considering getting germicidal UV lights, chat with Comfort Masters Service Experts. We can recommend the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 847-250-6729 today!
