How Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System Kills Viruses

The sun releases three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely 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 aren’t exposed to them in nature.

UVC light grants highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a purification method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically enhance 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 runs, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.

5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System

With other methods of air cleaning possible, why should you consider installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these pluses:

1. Clean Coils

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently moist, particularly in the summer. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.

2. Fresher Indoor Air

Media air filters can trap tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the number of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.

3. Improved Efficiency

By providing enough airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system work more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.

4. Extended HVAC Lifetime

Clean equipment performs more steadily and needs repairs less frequently. It might even last years longer.

5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which drains away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can fill up the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights reduce the likelihood of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.

Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?

When you weigh all the benefits they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove valuable in any home. You are more apt to benefit from installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:

• • Allergies

• • Asthma

• • Any respiratory issue

• • Weakened immune system

If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, speak with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can suggest the best 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 because UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights perform, or to request a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 866-397-3787 today!